San Diego Downtown News, May, 2010 by San Diego Community Newspaper Group

DOWNTOWN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER MAY 2010

San Diego Community Newspaper Group

www.SDNEWS.com Volume XI, Number 4

It’s

festival season Two opposing groups converged on the Federal Building May 1 to either demonstrate in favor of Arizona’s recent implementation of its immigration bill (left) or to PAUL HANSEN | Downtown News protest the law (right).

May Day brings opposing rallies over Arizona bill Giovanna DiBona, right, leads the procession during the Sicilian Festival in COURTESY PHOTO Little Italy, scheduled this year for May 23.

Sicilian Festival is all about community BY MEAGHAN CLARK | DOWNTOWN NEWS Whether you are Sicilian or not, chances are you won’t want to leave the sights, scents and tastes of the 17th annual Sicilian Festival once you arrive. Scheduled for May 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on India Street in Little Italy, this colorful annual event welcomes thousands of Sicily’s natives and fans. “There’s always a fascination with cultural events [around San Diego],” said Giovanna DiBona, festival public relations chair and Roman Holiday Ensemble lead vocalist. For Italian natives who make up Little Italy’s downtown district, it is all about community. “This is more of a community outreach than a money-maker because we get strong crowds, even those from out of town,” DiBona said. The event, put together by volunteers, continues to grow with local and

international entertainment, cultural craft fairs and children’s activities. This year’s festival is expected to be bigger and better than ever, particularly thanks to Italy’s win during the 2006 World Cup Championship. Puma and Soccer Fanatic are bringing the Puma World Cup Soccer Fan Zone to the festival on Beech and India Street, which DiBona expects will bring out many “futbol” fans. The streets will be filled with large television screens reliving Italy’s Azzuri team win, along with face painting, contests and cutouts of international players — perfect for pictures. Traditional Sicilian finds will fill the street, like at the cultural pavilion with Sicilian puppets both on display and performing, Madonnari Street painting and more. World famous Sicilian musicians are set to entertain, including accordionist Dick Contino and the

BY TAWNY MAYA MCCRAY SPECIAL TO DOWNTOWN NEWS

SICILIAN FESTIVAL WHEN: Sunday, May 23, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. WHERE: India Street in Little Italy ENTERTAINMENT: Puma Soccer Fan Zone, Roman Holiday Ensemble, Screamin Primas, face painting, inflatable slide, puppet show PARKING: Free parking (north lot of the County Administration Building on Pacific Highway with free shuttle) INFORMATION: www.sicilianfesta.com Roman Holiday Ensemble. This year’s Sicilian flag procession and parade will be led by County Supervisor Ron Roberts, who is part Sicilian. Joe Busalacchi, San Diego’s restaurateur who owns several staples in Little Italy, will be offering traditional Sicilian dishes that you “don’t really find anywhere else,” DiBona said. From anancini di riso (fried rice balls stuffed with cheese and meat) to fresh tuna (an industry that brought the Sicilians to San Diego in the 1920s); the event truly celebrates traditional Sicilian cuisine.

FESTIVALS GALORE: Taste of Little Italy, Page 10 :: Gator by the Bay, Page 12 :: Smooth Jazz Festival, Page B1

While roughly 150 to 200 people came out Saturday, May 1 at a downtown rally in support of Arizona’s newly-adopted immigration law, an estimated crowd of 1,000-plus marched through the streets from Chicano Park to the Federal Building, to oppose it. “They keep talking about how the illegal immigrants have drained all our monies,” said Anita Turner, who resides in the college area. “But in reality, eight years of George Bush has drained our monies. That’s why we’re in the shape we’re in.” Turner, who was among the protestors, which included groups like Union del Barrio, Collectivo Zapatista and Coalicion Primero de Mayo, compared the Arizona ruling to apartheid. She said although she agrees people should come into the country legally, she’d like to see a federal immigration law enacted that is not “so drastic.” “Anyone who’s brown-skinned will be stopped, whether or not you live here legally,” she said. “It won’t be the blue-eyed, blonde-haired Canadi-

ans. I’m afraid it’s too much power for the police.” Larry Rubin, a San Diego native who lives near the University of San Diego, was among the counter protestors in favor of the Arizona ruling, which also included the San Diego Minutemen. Rubin said he sees a very simple solution to this issue — close all the borders and deport all the illegals. “There’s not a job out there an American would not do,” he said. “It’s just that we have greedy owners and manufacturers that want to pay $2 an hour. I don’t want to work for $2 an hour. I have a higher standard. They’re causing our standard to be lowered.” Rubin, who at one point during the demonstration shouted, “Show us your face, you freaks! You cowards!” to a group of men in the march who wore bandanas covering their mouths and noses, said he’d also like to see immigrants learn English. “There’s nothing more disrespectful and rude than when you’re in English surroundings and a group of people break off and start speaking Spanish,” he said. “Enabling people like that doesSEE RALLY, Page 4

New proposed central library is still inching closer to reality BY HILLARY SCHULER-JONES | DOWNTOWN NEWS A plan to build a nine-story central library at Park Boulevard and J Street moved one step closer to fruition April 30 when the builder agreed to proceed with the project at the same cost it had originally estimated in 2005. When library and city officials

met with Turner Construction about the project in 2005, the company estimated expenses of $145 million for construction and approximately $40 million for architecture and engineering fees, fur niture and f ixtures. The City Council declined to approve the project until the librar y system had secured

enough funding to build the new facility, said Marion Moss Hubbard, San Diego Public Library’s public information officer. Since that time, the library has garnered approximately $148.5 million from several sources: $80 million from the Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC), $28.5 million from San Diego Pub-

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lic Library Foundation, $20 million from California State Library and $20 million from the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD), which is part of a 40year lease agreement for a charter school that will be housed on the new facility’s sixth and seventh floors, Moss Hubbard said. But officials close to the project

were concerned that inflation and building costs would tack millions more to the price tag after the fiveyear wait. Turner alleviated those fears April 30 by guaranteeing they could move forward with construction at the original cost. As a conSEE LIBRARY, Page 4

PAGE 2 | MAY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

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Council postpones decision to study tax increment limit The City Council decided April 30 to postpone a decision about whether to authorize Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC) to launch a study that would determine if the agency’s tax increment limit could be lifted in order to fully fund the city’s planned redevelopment projects. When CCDC was formed in 1992, state law set two limits on the agency: the tax increment limit, which allowed CCDC to collect up to $2.9 billion for redevelopment projects, and a time window that would run out in 2033. CCDC officials now estimate that the monetary cap will be reached in 2023, leaving approximately 70 projects in the city’s community plan unfunded, said Councilman Kevin Falconer, who represents the downtown region. If the cap is not lifted, CCDC will dissolve and all unfinished obligations of the community plan will fall back under the jurisdiction of the city and the general fund, said Derek Danziger, CCDC’s vice president of marketing and communications. The council will revisit the issue at a meeting scheduled for June 22. — Hillary Schuler-Jones

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What is the tax increment limit? The tax increment limit is a funding tool that pays for redevelopment activities in blighted areas by collecting increases in property tax values that happen as a result of those activities. CCDC collects approximately 87 percent of this increase, and the remaining 13 percent is allocated between the county, the San Diego County Office of Education, the San Diego Unified School District and the San Diego Community College District.

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Artist named for future park art BY SEBATIAN RUIZ | DOWNTOWN NEWS Encanto artist Roman de Salvo has been selected to provide a public work of art as part of the Unified Port of San Diego’s upcoming Ruocco Park, scheduled for construction in 2011 along the waterfront between Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway. Still in the early stages of his design for the piece, de Salvo said he’s spent the last month researching this “dream project.” “It is exactly the kind of thing for an artist of my sensibility, and to get this one is really what my purpose is as an artist,” de Salvo said. “I see it as an opportunity to bring my imagination and innovative sensibility and inspiration, and infuse that into this park … Hopefully it will be a delight for the citizenry.” Though de Salvo’s has been featured in San Diego, throughout California and

around the country, he introduced himself to the public as the project artist in April. He will be meeting periodically with a team of landscape designers and public administrators starting mid-summer so as not to “drop a bombshell,” he said. De Salvo’s work has been displayed at various locations, including the Quint Contemporary Art in La Jolla, the Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego, the California Biennial at the Orange County Museum of Art, and galleries in New York, Nevada and France. With a bachelor’s degree from the California College of Arts and Crafts and a Masters of Fine Arts from the University of California, San Diego, de Salvo brings a unique, thought-provoking perspective to his work using everyday materials like wood and electrical conduit that also have an “engaging” element to them. One wall-mounted piece featured in La Jolla has a maze-like quality created from

electrical casing and wire boxes. “I have an interest the use of elements, like energetic phenomena, wind, fire, electricity, [things that are] mercurial and phenomenal in some way. I like exploiting their properties. There’s some good resources for that at Ruoocco [Park] and we’ll see what I can do,” he said. The Unified Port of San Diego commissioners approved the 3.3-acre park in December. It is to be built just north of Seaport Village. Funding for the park came, in part, from a $3.5 million grant from the Lloyd and Ilse Ruocco fund, according to port officials. Lloyd Ruocco was a famous San Diego architect. Ilse was also a known interior designer and professor at San Diego State University. The Ruocco’s established a trust fund about 25 years ago for the purpose of establishing more public park space in the city, according to port officials.

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LIBRARY CONTINUED FROM Page 1

tractor at risk, Turner has agreed to absorb any additional construction costs if the project becomes more expensive than they had anticipated. The proposed library would replace the existing library on E Street, which was built in 1954. Moss Hubbard said that more than two-thirds of the existing central library’s collection is stored in the basement because the facility is not big enough to display all the works on the shelves. “We have so many great treasures at the library, and this is really going to help amplify that,” Moss Hubbard said. At 294,673 square feet, the new facility would be more than twice as big as the existing library and

would include space for six meeting rooms, 22 study rooms, a 3,600-square-foot event center on the ninth floor, a 3,000-squarefoot gallery and exhibition room and a new homework center. The new facility would also help the central library provide better service to each of the branches in the system, including central processing, collection development and reference assistance, Moss Hubbard said. “Just as the branches are kind of the heart of the community, the central library is kind of the heart of the whole library system,” she said. The project will now move to the City Council’s Rules Committee for review and will be passed on to the council for a final vote this summer. The library needs to break ground by Aug. 1 to keep the funding pledged by the California State Library.

NEWS

BEAUTY WITH HER BATHING BEAUTY — Artist Irina Negulescu displays her painting titled "Bathing Beauty" during Art Walk on April 25 in Little Italy. The annual event featured art, music and food throughout the neighborhood.

RALLY

down the middle of Front Street. Aside from some angry banter, the CONTINUED FROM Page 1 event went off without a hitch. There were even several men pushn’t help them, we need to enable them by ing ice cream carts in the crowd teaching them English.” who generated good business from The opposing groups were kept the many families who took part in apart by a team of about 25 San the march from Chicano Park. Diego police officers, who stood in “It was very emotional and very pasbetween them in a formidable line sionate for people on both sides,” said

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San Diego Police Capt. Mark Jones. “And we have to give credit to the citizens of San Diego for realizing that they can voice their opinion without there being civil disobedience or a crime committed. We were pretty fortunate.” On Monday, May 3, the San Diego City Council formally opposed Arizona’s immigration law, voting 7-1 in favor of a repeal.

NEWS

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

Veteran’s Museum poised to remember fallen comrades BY JOHNNY MCDONALD | DOWNTOWN NEWS A long list of names of San Diego County servicemen who fell in battle will be read during Memorial Day weekend at the Veteran’s Museum and Memorial Center on Inspiration Point. “It’s San Diego’s version of the Vietnam Wall to honor and preserve the memories of those killed in action,” said Melanie Bruce, director of events. “They’ll start reading the names Saturday morning. A bereavement group will conduct a candle light vigil. The Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter Capt. (Ret.) Will Hays 472, will take part in the closing ceremonies.” Throughout the year, the museum conducts open houses to commemorate key dates in history. It’s a rewarding visit through this former Balboa Naval Hospital chapel, Rear Adm. (Ret.) walking through rooms Rod Melendez and hallways to view unique, artifacts, dioramas, records, paintings and other memorabilia of military engagements dating back to the Civil War. And, there’s a library with 1,000 volumes. Dedicated to veterans of all conflicts, the museum’s exhibits feature World War I, World War II, Pearl Harbor, the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, Desert Storm, Women in the Military, and paintings by local artists of military subjects. It took some convincing, but in 1989 retired Capt. Will Hays spearheaded a campaign to stop the wrecking ball from tearing down the building. He gathered enough ex-servicemen to make the transformation. Hayes is currently chairman of the museum’s board of directors.

Despite the 11th-hour heroics, it still might be regarded as a stepchild to the Balboa Park colony of museums. “There’s still a lot of people who don’t know it exists,” commented Bruce. “The proximity to other museums presents somewhat of a challenge when you think of the Prado as the central area. We’re also confused with the War Memorial Building near the zoo.” Rear Adm. (Ret.) Rod Melendez has served as the volunteer executive director since 2004, putting in 40-hour work weeks. Executive directors at other museums are normally salaried employees. The central area includes a display interpreting the surrender of the Imperial Japanese Forces at the end of World War II as it occurred aboard the battleship USS Missouri. Noted maritime artist Richard de Rosset’s mural depicting the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor is one of five now adorning the walls. The life-rings near the center of the mural contain signatures of Pearl Harbor survivors. De Rosset’s D-Day mural, depicting events on and around Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944 is punctuated by one of the many beautiful stainedglass windows. San Diego County artist Donald Schloat, a survivor of the Bataan Death March and a prisoner of the Japanese, has used painting and sculpture to tell the horrifying story of his experiences in World War II. The Distinguished Flying Cross Society, San Diego Lindbergh Chapter is one of several leading veterans’ groups to have sponsored a display cabinet. This case exhibits memorabilia belonging to American aviators who made their mark from the 1920s through World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Cold War. Melendez said they have a wide range of visitors. Even though personally they had no military experience they want to view what family members experienced. “We try to tell the story that will relate to future generations.” Hays said.

The main chapel of the Veteran’s Museum and Memorial Center in Balboa Park.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Veteran’s Museum and Memorial Center on Inspiration Point is working to differentiate itself among Balboa Park’s COURTESY PHOTO colony of museums.

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

NEWS Lions Club pounces on philanthropic causes BY JOHNNY MCDONALD | DOWNTOWN NEWS Most recognize the San Diego Downtown Lions Club as the founding supporter of the nation’s largest high school baseball tournament held on Easter weekends. The last countywide springtime classic involved 112 teams, playing over four days, according to Peter Gallagher, who has been at the helm of the tourney for several years. Still, this represents only one major function generated from inside the 14story Lions Manor, located in the heart of the Gaslamp District (4th and Market streets). Gallagher, who is an East County Superior Court judge, said there is much more to the club’s philanthropic operations. As a past president, Gallagher can attest to the important work being done by the 160-member organization — one-third of those members made up of women. Gallagher said the organization has committees fostering programs for the sight- and hearing-challenged, scholarships and various charities. “We fund things that the big charities and the government do not,” Gallagher said. Victoria Wierig, who has been executive director for 27 years, said she has seen the club grow in many ways, including a $4 million reserve from bequeaths and other major contributions. “We’re a 501(c) nonprofit under the San Diego Lions Club welfare foundation arm and receive an operating budget from our members,” Wierig said. “Membership is by invitation to persons willing to serve the community.” Established in 1922, the Lions Club is one of few service clubs that are fortu-

The 14-story Lions Manor is located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter at Fourth and Market streets.

nate to enjoy the ownership and use of its own meeting facility. At the Tuesday meetings, members stay informed by inviting civic and military leaders to speak on current topics. “We have a solid base of members in their thirties, fourties and fifties and

(who are) at the middle level of their careers looking for something to do instead of just golfing or hanging out at the beach,” Gallagher said. Building upon a plan of offering assisSEE LIONS, Page 9

NEWS NEWSbriefs Mayor unveils framework for sustainability initiatives Mayor Jerry Sanders unveiled the framework for a new sustainability program on Earth Day that is intended to make downtown San Diego more environmentally friendly and help the city meet state climate change goals for 2020. The program, called “Centre City Green,” consists of three parts: the implementation of green building measures that will ensure future buildings use fewer resources; the Downtown Lighting Master Plan, which will introduce new energy efficient lighting strategies for buildings and public areas; and a “green streets” program that will focus on improving downtown’s outdoor spaces and making the area more pedestrian- and bikefriendly.

Death in Gaslamp hotel prompts investigation SDPD Homicide Unit detectives have determined that a female who was found dead at the Ramada Inn at 830 Sixth Ave. on April 30 was not the victim of a homicide. An employee of the Gaslamp-area hotel found the female’s body inside a room at 11:45

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

a.m. and called police. Police officials originally said that the state of the victim’s body made the death seem suspicious, but a subsequent investigation ruled out homicide as the cause. The medical examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. No additional details had been released about the victim as of press time.

they work faster than manual sweeping, and they are able to maneuver around numerous obstacles. They are also quiet, so ambassadors can operate them without disturbing residents and businesses.

Little Italy opens free 2-hour parking

The Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center opened April 21at 1525 Fourth Ave., giving low-income seniors access to a variety of programs and services meant to transform the aging experience. The 17,000-square-foot facility, which was made possible through a $3 million donation by the Gary and Mary West Foundation, includes a nutrition center, medical and mental services, classes, a civic engagement program and a cyber café. Officials from Senior Community Centers, the company that runs the center, said they want the bright, colorful facility to resemble a college campus rather than the stereotypical senior center, and they hope that other centers across the nation will adopt their model for healthy aging. The center is open to all seniors ages 60 and older and all services are free. Meals are provided with a suggested minimum donation, although a representative for the center said they will not turn away anyone who cannot afford that price.

The Little Italy Association has made the parking lots at Washington Elementary School, located at 1789 State St., available for two-hour free parking on Saturdays. Parking will be $2 per additional hour.

Clean & Safe introduces new cleaning equipment The Downtown San Diego Partnership Clean and Safe Program, the Property Business Improvement District (PBID) for downtown San Diego, announced that it has just purchased three new Green Machine 414s that maintenance ambassadors will use to clean sidewalks faster and more efficiently. T h e w a l k - b e h i n d v a c u um/sweepers have many benefits, according to Will Berry of the Clean and Safe Program. They are able to compact waste to 33 percent of its’ original size, meaning less trips to the dump,

New senior wellness center opens downtown

The Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center is a bright, colorful facility that is intended to resemble a college campus rather than the stereotypical senior center. COURTESY PHOTO

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FITNESS

Three, two, one — jump! FIT SAVVY By Connie Cook | Guest Columnist

You can jump to conclusions, jump to the rhythm, jump on it, jump for joy, you can even jump the gun. With all this jumping around everyone seems to be doing, it seems one of the best jumps you may be missing is the jump into plyometric training. Plyometric exercises are used to train for a wide range of sports to help athletes reach peak physical condition by improving their strength and power. Sometimes referred to as “jump training,” plyometric exercises are big, explosive movements. Every action is done with the intent to have a muscle reach full movement as quickly as possible. The first time you try plyometric drills you may feel as agile as an elephant jumping rope, but in time you will get the hang of it and become lighter on your feet, more comfortable with the movements and precise in your execution. So let’s say you have a goal to jump higher, because you never know when you may feel the urge to slam dunk something on your way to work (a wad of paper into something taller than the trash can). Whatever your reason, here is a simple but effective drill to improve your vertical jump:

Wall jumps Reach your arm over your head and mark a target on a wall that is a little higher that your extended arm. Stand in front of the wall with your feet about shoulder-with apart. Then start jumping and consistently reach for the target with alternating hands and try to reach the target on every jump. Time on the

ground should be minimal and each jump should be as high as the one before. Let’s assume your next goal is to improve your running speed (since it’s quite possible person A in your life recently found out about person B in your life and now you might need to run for your life!). Plyometric training can help you here, too. Runners are always trying to get faster. Whether you’re a sprinter or a marathoner, plyometric exercises are beneficial to your training because of the running-specific nature of the exercises. Here is a simple but powerful exercise to help increase your running speed:

Split-squat jump Stand with your feet staggered about 18 to 24 inches apart. Jump up and while in the air quickly switch legs forward and backward. Land and absorb the impact softly by bending both legs until the back knee is about an inch from the ground. Keep your chest up and maintain good posture throughout. The front knee shouldn’t move too far past the toes. If you don’t jump, don’t run, what do you do? Let’s suppose you’re a fighter, not a lover. Anyone who participates in martial arts training can attest that speed and power are crucial to the discipline. Lightening speed punches and bone-crushing kicks can put you in the victor’s circle. You have to practice the techniques over and over and visualize the speed you need. Like a snake on its prey, the punch has to be overwhelming when you strike. Preparing your upper body with plyometric exercises is one way to prepare for your match. Here’s a simple twist on a basic exercise to help you do that:

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Drop push-ups Assume a position upright but on your knees with both arms at chest level slightly more than shoulder width apart bent at 90 degrees. Drop to your hands without hesitation and forcefully contract when the hands touch the floor as to limit the amount of arm bend. You want to spend as little time on the ground as possible. The higher the “drop” the more force is absorbed, thus the more power potential to develop. Although all of these are effective and somewhat simple exercises, you shouldn’t start plyometric training unless you are already pretty well-conditioned, or you risk injury. The exercises are powerful and take a good base of strength to perform. There is a tremendous amount of force generated with plyometric movements, so it is important to develop a safe landing technique. Most importantly, get with someone who knows what they are doing to learn how to properly do the exercises. You can jump on the phone and call a personal trainer or jump on-line and research the topic further. Either way, you might as well JUMP! Go ahead and JUMP!

Connie Cook “C2” Fitness Director Fit Athletic Club

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NEWS Embarcadero improvements dealt setback BY SEBASTIAN RUIZ | DOWNTOWN NEWS The Unified Port of San Diego's planned improvements for North Harbor Drive have been slowed by a recent decision by the California Coastal Commission. Other improvements for nearby Lane Field developments also face delays because of a weakened economy, according to port officials. Coastal commissioners voted 5-5 on port plans during an April meeting, effectively denying the first phase of the North Embarcadero Visionary Plan. The decision sends the Port District’s plans for sections of North Harbor Drive and Broadway back to square one, according to port officials. The project would have created improvements along North Harbor Drive from B Street to the Navy Pier that includes a waterfront esplanade, public gathering spaces and additional parking. Several detractors of the latest

LIONS CONTINUED FROM Page 6

tance to the sight- and hearingimpaired, the club continues its support to many worthwhile projects. Mindful of the changing times, it takes an active role in programs involving at-risk youth, the elderly, the developmentally-challenged and otherwise disadvantaged members of society. Also, it’s the vanguard in providing support to local servicemen and women. “We recently gave a check to the Veterans Village to provide for the

form of the project raised issue over a contiguous 2.5-acre oval park included in the original plans several years ago. Port planners later changed the vision for the park — essentially breaking it up in to smaller sections to make way for approved cruise-ship terminal developments. “The port is really rethinking the [project],” said port spokeswoman Marguerite Elicone. “That whole project had been in the works for 12 years, so it’s kind of [disappointing].” Elicone said it could take another two years before the port comes up with revamped plans for the area. Coastal Commissioner Esther Sanchez said she had concerns about the project during the April meeting. “I was concerned about the piecemeal changes to the master plan, especially how difficult it is to determine whether there will be sufficient parking, public access and

true open-space public areas, not ones that will be privatized periodically,” Sanchez said. In addition to the recent setback, the port continues to look for money for another nearby project. The Lane Field redevelopment plan to bring two hotels to the former ballpark has hit a snag as planners continue to look for financing, according to Elicone. “That hotel project is having difficulty finding financing, but it’s hard for everybody right now,” Elicone said. “We were hoping that the project would have started before the [North Embarcadero Visionary Plan], but it hasn’t.” The Lane Field plans include nearly 800 guest rooms, ballrooms, a pier at Grape Street and North Harbor Drive with retail and dining space. The development would bring about 2,000 jobs to the area, along with $5 million to $7 million in tax revenue, according to port officials.

homeless veterans,” said Gallagher. Lions Manor is a Housing and Urban Development Departmentsubsidized apartment building at 310 Market Street, which was built by the club in 1981 for low-income elderly and wheelchair-bound citizens. There are 131 apartments, each with a living room, one-bedroom, bath, kitchen and private balcony. The first floor contains the building offices, a spacious lobby, a game room, a library and TV area, and a large community room for resident use. Sharon Mendenhall, a retired city

school vice principal, is the current president. Attorney Rich Rankin will assume the yearlong post in July. As for the baseball tourney, Gallagher said he would like to add more Southern California teams to its eight divisions. Highly successful San Diego High baseball coach Les Cassie encouraged the Lions Club to start the tourney 60 years ago. It was founded because city schools could no longer afford to send teams to a major tourney in Pomona. It was named in honor of Mike Marrow, a legendary high school and college baseball coach.

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

OB ITUARY

Memories of Shelia Renee Hardin CCDC renames the Downtown Information Center in her honor BY GINO LIZARDI

fusions, medications and other treatments, she told me. I was at work at the front desk of the New When she got out of the hospital and Palace Hotel on Fifth and Elm Street scan- went back to work at CCDC, I went over to ning the morning paper and was stunned to talk with her about three weeks ago. We read about Shelia Hardin in were now bonded lupus and the obituary column of the cancer survivors. She was Union-Tribune April 27. The enthusiastic and in good spirshort obit stated that a service its, as usual, and we talked and memorial was being held about life and different conthat same day. There were ventional and alternative more than 100 people in treatments for our cancers. attendance. She said her cancer was in She died from complicaremission as mine was too. tions related to cancer the preWe caught up on local gossip vious Friday (April 20, 2010). and had a lot of laughs as we She was 60 years old. always did when we got Shelia was a long-time together. On the way out she friend of mine who I’ve gave me her cell phone numknown over the years from ber and got me to promise to Shelia Renee Hardin having been a volunteer bus have Annette, my wife, and tour guide on Saturdays for Wayne Z., also a good friend, Centre City Development Corcome over for dinner real poration’s (CCDC) Downtown Information soon at her condo in Little Italy. We hugged Center when the center was located on and told each other to “stay strong.” Broadway Circle near Horton Plaza. She Derek Danziger, vice president of Marketoften called on me to join her at the CCDC ing and Communications for CCDC, told me info table she set at the Multi Cultural Festi- over the phone that CCDC is planning to val on MLK Promenade. rename the Downtown Information Center She was a special guest at my wedding The Sheila Renee Hardin Downtown Inforreception in 2004. We stayed in touch and mation Center, presently located on the secI’d drop in to have short visits with her at her ond floor at Horton Plaza. The ceremonyoffice at CCDC where she served as commu- memorial would be announced sometime nity relations manager. soon. This is CCDC’s tribute to Sheila for her In 2007, I was diagnosed with colorectal exemplary dedication to her job over 23 cancer and underwent three surgeries, radi- years. This gal had a vibrant and engaging ation therapy and on-going adjuvant personality. Danziger said she was “beloved chemotherapy. Three years ago, Sheila was and would be missed.” An understatement diagnosed with systemic lupus erythemato- to say the least. I can see her smiling face sus and recently was hospitalized for treat- laughing loudly all the way to heaven. Catch ment for her condition: dialysis, blood trans- you later, Shelia.

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Youʼre Invited to Celebrate

Summer Sol Arts for Learning August 14 • 6:30-10:30 p.m. Joe & Vi Jacobs Center/ Market Street Plaza 404 Euclid Ave, San Diego, 92114 Now in our 47th year, Young Audiences is the oldest and largest non-profit in San Diego dedicated to arts education for children and youth. This years theme is “Come Together”. Come together with us to help make the arts a basic part of every childʼs education! For information or sponsorship call 619.282-7599 or go to www.yasandiego.org

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

FOOD & DRINK

Taste of Little Italy serves up eclectic flavors BY HILLARY SCHULER-JONES | DOWNTOWN NEWS Little Italy may be best known for its amazing Italian restaurants, but the Taste of Little Italy event Wednesday, May 26 will prove that the area has an eclectic mix of food designed to please every palate. The annual event, which will run from 5 to 9 p.m., will feature more than 20 restaurants serving up sample sizes of their specialties, and while Italian pasta dishes will be abundant, fare from other regions is also part of the main attraction. For a European flair, Fabrison’s will dish up its sweet and savory crepes, while Indigo Grill will tap into its Mexican/Pacific Northwest fusion recipes for Mezal smoked salmon bruschetta. South American flavors will also be represented; visitors to Puerto la Boca can try the skirt steak or Argentinian chorizo sausage. “People think of this area as featuring primarily Italian food … but we have so much variety, it’s just incredible,” said event organizer Sandi Cottrell. Cottrell said Taste of Little Italy is unique from similar events because the participating restaurants are in close

Sumptuous ravioli will be among the delights awaiting visitors to Taste of Little Italy, set to COURTESY PHOTO take place Wednesday, May 26.

proximity to one another. “One of the things that distinguishes this taste [event] is that all of the restaurants are within walking distance, so there’s no shuttling necessary or getting in your car to drive anywhere. It’s really nice to have that walking break from restaurant to restaurant because you are doing so much munching,” she said. Cottrell said another highlight is that

each visitor receives a passport that lists all of the restaurants when they enter the event, and they can get stamps at each food station to keep track of what they have indulged in. While diners enjoy checking off the plethora of flavors available, restaurant owners enjoy seeing fresh faces at their establishments. Chad Cline, the thirdgeneration owner of San Diego’s oldest

Danny Moceri, proprietor of Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, shows off a tasty offering.

bar, Waterfront Bar and Grill on Kettner Boulevard, said he takes part in the event because it gives him a chance to debunk the misconceptions people have about Waterfront. “We participate in it because a bunch of new faces come in, and it’s nice to have some people who maybe haven’t been to the Waterfront before … some people have expectations about dive bars that are not really the case, and then they come in and we have really good food, and they don’t expect [that],” he said. This year, Waterfront will be serving chipotle sliders, which are bite-size versions of one of their house specialty hamburgers complete with chipotle mayo sauce and a side of French fries. Anthony Zizzo, owner and chef at Vincenzo’s Ristorante Italiano on

COURTESY PHOTO

India Street, will be dishing up roasted butternut squash ravioli with butter sage sauce. He said he sees the event as an opportunity for guests to explore areas of Little Italy they may not have seen before. “It’s just another useful tool to get people familiar with Little Italy and the restaurants and what we have to offer,” Zizzo said. “It definitely gives people a chance to see Little Italy for more than India Street.” Tickets are $35 before the event and $40 at the door, although Cottrell said tickets frequently sell out prior to the event. Proceeds go to the Little Italy Association to fund neighborhood events and beautification projects. Tickets and a full list of participating restaurants are available at www.tasteoflittleitalysd.com.

FOOD & DRINK 500 wines by the glass!!! Vineyard Place MIKE KALLAY

something different than what the winemaker wanted to show you. Those wine bars popping up with machines are showing you these types of wines: wines with a bit of softening from initial open, then you not only are not getting the freshest just-out-of-the-bottle flavors (because oxygen has softened the flavors between the time the enclosure is opened and the time the inert gas starts pumping into the sealed bottle), but you are getting an almost “mummified” version of that wine with no predictable aging, but rather, kind of a state of suspended youth, in a place somewhere between “fresh” and “dead.” I believe that having a glass or bottle of wine is a journey that you take. It’s an implicit contract of sorts, between you and Mother Nature. When you start to prolong the life of a bottle of wine, you start to see different things — most likely not intended — than you would if you simply open a bottle, have four glasses and then recycle the bottle. Remember that Stephen King novel called “Pet Cemetery?” If you don’t, the theme was that if your pet (or friend) dies, you could take them to this special cemetery and they’d come back to life, only slightly different. In the novel, they become homicidal. I’m not saying these wines will try to kill you, but why take the chance? That is why we don’t have more than 15 wines on our list at any time. 75 percent of the wines we sell would not last to day No. 2, and so those wines go home with the owners, employees, or they go down the drain at night’s end. The other 25 percent that do last to day No. 2 may in fact be better with some oxygen, and we’ll tell you in detail why that is. Heck, we’ll even pour you a new bottle versus Day No. 2’s bottle so you can see for yourself. As I said to our reviewer, I’d rather showcase 15 wines that show as well as they possibly could, than to sell 50 wines living on borrowed time: flat and soft, and without all that Mother Nature has put into those grapes. I believe we owe it to the folks who work their tails off working the land, gently processing the fruit, and then waiting for those wines to mature to the point that they’re ready to be shared with the rest of the world. You can decide for yourself. Just understand what really is behind a steakhouse with 100 wines by-the-glass or a wine bar with a suspiciously-large list. Take a look at how they store their wines. Are the whites kept in a commercial fridge at 39 degrees, or in a wine refrigerator at 52 degrees? Are there dozens of open bottles on the bar with corks precariously sitting on the bottle, or are the corks jammed all the way in to help seal out oxygen? Take note of how many open bottles you see if you are there near opening. I suspect you’ll be shocked. You wouldn’t serve a dinner guest four-dayold wine, would you?

I had to respond to a critical review of our wine bar last week mentioning that we didn’t have a “great selection” of wines by-the-glass. This is essentially what I wrote, but I thought it worthwhile to talk about in this column for education’s sake: Any establishment that has more than 20 bottles of wine by-the-glass is playing games to be able to make money on those wines and to get them into your glass. The only problem is, they likely don’t care about “when” those wines hit your glass — only that they eventually will. And, many of them, or most, if we’re being honest, don’t give a darn about “how” those wines show once they hit your glass. Heck, one of my peers once served me a glass of pinot on a Tuesday that was opened on Thursday. When I asked the owner — not a server — to smell the wine, he couldn’t tell that the wine was oxidized beyond enjoyment. That place is long since out of business, by the way. Many of these places will very gently put the cork in the bottle, with about 2/3 of the cork still outside the bottle, and simply leave them on the counter over night(s) until they sell. Some may stick those bottles in the refrigerator, bringing them out every day in hopes of selling them (warm/cold/warm/cold). Some still have paid tens of thousands of dollars for machines that continuously pump inert gas into the bottles to ward off oxygen, enemy No. 1 of wine. They’re trying to steal another day of use at your expense. It doesn’t even have to be a place with 20-plus wines on the menu. It could be your favorite corner bar with six wines on the menu to satisfy the occasional customer who doesn’t want a car bomb or a pint of Blue Moon. There’s a place in East Village that I love, but I’d never order wine there — they keep all of it in a commercial fridge at 38 degrees! In any case, if you’re not going to sell the wines the day you open them, and they’re truly not going to hold up until day No. 2 (which the vast majority won’t), then these establishments are either selling you wine that is already “gone” or they are selling you wines that are not showing the way the winemaker or Mother Nature intended for you to taste them. In the case of the latter, think about it. The wine is aged in barrel/bottle (likely) in a controlled fashion until ready for release. The enclosure type (cork, screw cap, etc.) has a pretty predictable role in the aging of the wine. Once you open a wine, it begins a pretty quick degradation into oxidized grape juice (not even vinegar, even though that sounds romantic). You can slow that down by Mike Kallay and his wife, Stephanie, own keeping oxygen, light and heat away the Cask Room, a wine bar in East Village. from it, but at this point, it becomes www.thecaskroom.com

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FOOD & DRINK

Let the good times roll Gator by the Bay brings ninth annual festival to Spanish Landing BY MEAGHAN CLARK | DOWNTOWN NEWS The ninth annual Gator by the Bay will bring the culture, music and energy of southwest Louisiana to San Diego. If you’re ready to have a good time, the Gator by the Bay Music & Food Festival is for you, capturing all five senses with Zydeco, Cajun and Blues music, Louisiana food and music workshops addressing Creole and Cajun history. Opening tomorrow, Friday, May 7 with the first ever half day Gator By Night “supper club,” patrons will be entertained by honky tonk and old time swing groups, the Bourbon Street Food Court, dancing and the film premiere of “Texas Zydeco.” The festivities continue through the weekend with dance lessons, children’s activities, six stages with more than 75 performers, cooking demonstrations and a Saturday night dance at the Sheraton Hotel & Marina. People from all over the country attend the Gator by the Bay for its nonstop crawfish boil. A tradition brought back from Louisiana, Gator by the Bay brings in 8,000 pounds of crawfish straight from the source: Opelousas, La. Sitting pretty at Spanish Landing Park, the live crawfish are dumped into spicy seasonings with corn cob and red potatoes — a meal in which everyone pinches a tail and enjoys the mess. Formed by Bon Temps Social Club of San Diego, a group that has a passion for dance and music, Gator by the Bay was originally inspired by the fais do do, a traditional Cajun Sunday social afternoon with family, food, music and dance. The group eventually began a twice-monthly dance party, but by

The Gator by the Bay Music & Food Festival offers live music with plenty of dancing, the Bourbon Street Food Court, children’s activities, six stages with more than 75 performers COURTESY PHOTO and a non-stop crawfish boil.

2001, after attending a slew of Cajun/Zydeco festivals, these San Diegans decided to start their own. Now the Gator by the Bay Festival includes nonstop dance lessons taught by some of the best in the nation. “We have a no-fault dance policy — if you’re smiling, you’re doing it right,” said Maryann Blinkhorn, one of three festival founders. With a commitment to share Louisiana’s fun-loving nature with San Diego’s students, county schools are annually invited to attend a preview spe-

GATOR BY THE BAY WHEN: May 7-9; Friday 4-10:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. WHERE: Spanish Landing Park INFORMATION: www.sandiegofestival.com

cial where they are given a geography and history lesson, red beans and rice and gumbo, dancing lessons and a chance to play rub board with a live Zydeco band. In the same vein, the “Foundation Stage” will welcome young San Diego performers during the event, a first for Gator by the Bay. “The joy of this festival is that everyone gets involved,” Blinkhorn said. “It’s about embracing a different culture.”

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS | MAY 2010 | PAGE 13

FOOD & DRINK Go to: www.sdnews.com/pages/dining for more dining information

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Wolf fy’s Place Wolffy's Place-authentic Chicago Eatery featuring Chicago Vienna hotdogs,Italian Beef on Gonnella rolls, Baby back BBQ ribs, Chicago Deep Dish Pizza as well as thin crust, Brats, Italian and Polish sausage, and a full bar with happy hour 3pm-6pm M-F with 2 for 1 beers, and 4$ wells, half price appetisers and 3$ sandwiches; come watch all Bears, Bulls and Blackhawk games on Direct T.V.

Richard Walker’s Pancake House Richard Walker’s Pancake House, an upscale fusion of traditional and gourmet breakfast favorites, is now open in the Marina District in downtown San Diego. Serving classicstyle griddlecakes, crepes, omelets and other specialties, this pancake house is certain to become the “premier” breakfast destination for San Diego's residents, employees and the tourist community! Open 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 7 days a week, and if you are unable to stay and enjoy the atmosphere, take Richard Walker’s with you as we prepare orders to go.

Panificio e Ristorante Solunto

Funky Garcia’s Stop by Funky Garcias (located at 421 Market Str) for these great weekday promotions. MON. INDUSTRY NIGHT-$4 shots of Patron Silver, Don Julio Blanco, Jack Daniels and other fine spirits from 7pmClose. TACO TUES.- $2 Tecate and Tecate Light, $4 Smirnoff and Cuervo Tradicional. HAPPY WED.-1/2 price all drinks and appetizers ALL DAY! THURS. 80’s NIGHT- $3 Tecate and Tecate Lights, $2 12oz Bud Light drafts. Incredible Mexican brunch 10am to 2pm $1 Mimosas $3 tecate and tecate lights, $5 incredible bloody maries. For additional information, please see www.funkygarcias.com.

Panificio e Ristorante Solunto has been around for over 40 years. The name change from Solunto Baking Co is only to show that we added a restaurant for the evening. The décor has changed as well to uplift the ambiance for day and night. One of the last original family members still runs the new transition of a landmark that made San Diego exuberant in delicious Sicilian style bread, cookies and pastries. The lunch portion of the business still carries all the delicacies that made us flourish like sandwiches, hot food, and pizza. Now the dinnertime has a great influence in the Little Italy arena of great food. Hours are as follows: Bakery/Lunchtime Monday 9AM-3PM, Tues-Fri 9AM-5PM, Saturday 8AM-5PM Sunday 8AM-4PM Dinnertime Tues-Sat 5PM-10PM Address: 1643 India St San Diego CA 92101 619-233-3506 www.solunto.biz email: solunto@cox.net

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Tabule Restaurant + Bar Tabule is a cozy hidden gem. Tucked away on 4th Avenue between Market Street and Island Avenue is Tabule Restaurant + Wine Bar. Tabule has also been voted as one of the “Top10 Restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter” as well as “Most Romantic”. In addition to their unique dishes, Tabule hosts a daily “Power Hour” from 5pm-6pm Monday through Friday. All drinks and appetizers are HALF PRICE On Tuesday guests can enjoy and ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOUR from 5pm to close and another extended Happy Hour from 3pm-6pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

FOOD & DRINK

Photos by PAUL HANSEN

Let The Melting Pot melt your heart

Not your father’s fondue BY HILLARY SCHULER-JONES | DOWNTOWN NEWS n the 1970s, bell-bottoms were all the rage, disco dominated the airwaves and no dinner party was complete without a simmering pot of fondue. But while bell-bottoms and disco have largely stayed in the past, fondue has evolved to become a sophisticated dining option with high-end ingredients and a variety of bold flavors. That evolution has yielded one of the Gaslamp’s newest additions, The Melting Pot, which opened April 7 at 901 Fifth Ave. Long gone are the harvest-gold-colored fondue pots of yesterday. At The Melting Pot, which is part of a national franchise that includes more than 145 restaurants in 37 states, they’ve been replaced by sleek double-broilers that sit atop specialty tables featuring built-in induction burners. The tables may sound high-tech, but they blend well with the restaurant’s contemporary décor. After shutting down Dakota Grill last year, owners David and Lesley Cohn spent several months renovating the interior of the

turn-of-the-century building. They kept the ornate ceiling and the wide staircase leading to the full bar upstairs, but repainted the walls in hues of chocolate, vanilla and baby blue, and replaced the furnishings with rich, dark wood tables and booths. The recipes have been updated, too. The classic bowl of melted cheddar has morphed into menu items like the “Wisconsin Trio Fondue,” which is made with fontina, butterkase and buttermilk blue cheeses as well as white wine, scallions and sherry. The fontina gives the dish a hint of smoke, while the blue cheese provides just the right amount of bite, especially when paired with the crunch of a Granny Smith apple dipper. And cheese is now just the first course. Entrees such as “Lobster Indulgence” feature fresh cold water lobster tail, citrus-infused pork tenderloin, sushi-grade ahi tuna, garlic-chili chicken breast, kiwi-lime shrimp, potstickers and vegetables, all cooked tableside in one of three types of broth: Coq au Vin, Court Bouillon, or Mojo, a Caribbeanseasoned bouillon with hints of garlic

Jaisel Lester and Alex Fernandez, general manager, sample some of the fare at The Melting Pot.

HAPPY HOUR MARGARITA MONDAYS 2PM to 6PM, 8PM to Close $3 Corona or Pacifico • $3 Draft Dos Equis XX $3 Tequila Shot • $4 Margarita • $6 Redzone Fish Taco $5 Zone Baked Nachos • $2.99 Chips & Salsa

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and citrus. There is also an oil option, Bourguignonne, which contains no trans fats. Each entrée is served with multiple dipping sauces. Chocolate lovers will find options on the restaurant’s dessert menu as well, which features an assortment of delicacies like “Chocolate Peanut Butter Fondue” and dippers like strawberries and cheesecake. “The thing I love about fondue is that your first bite is always as hot as your last,” said manager Alex Fernandez. He also loves the opportunity for customer interaction that fondue creates. Wait staff are responsible for mixing all the fondue ingredients at the table and explaining how to cook the various entrees, so they are assigned to only three tables, providing them more time with each of their customers. “You aren’t just getting food, you are getting the service and the hospitality,” Fernandez said. “We are part of the experience. We get to be part of the party.” In fact, The Melting Pot is equipped to handle multiple types of parties. Couples celebrating romantic occasions can be seated in “Lovers Lane,” a row of six tables upstairs that are partially shielded from the rest of the restaurant, while parties of up to 16 can be accommodated in the private Sonoma Room. The establishment also has a smaller private room for up to eight guests and booths upstairs that can seat as many as 12 people. Fernandez said that management would also consider renting out larger parts of the restaurant for corporate events or rehearsal dinners. For all the novelty of the fondue experience, the prices have stayed a bit more traditional. Every course comes in at less than $30, and the restaurant offers four-course specials for less than $50 per person. To book a reservation on Lover’s Lane or at any of the restaurant’s other funfilled tables, call (619) 234-5554.

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SPORTS Padres starting fast at home, on base-paths BY ANTHONY GENTILE | DOWNTOWN NEWS For the first time in six seasons, the San Diego Padres finished the first month of the season on the right side of .500. The Padres have found early success with a core of young talent and a blend of speed, pitching and defense. “There have been contributions from a lot of people along the way and that’s what it’s going to take for our team,” said Padres manager Bud Black. “We have solid players in and around our lineup that on a nightly basis can contribute, and that’s what’s happening here.” After losing their first three series of the season, the Friars went on an eightgame winning streak in the middle of April. Even though the team finished 10 games over .500 in the last 36 games of the 2009 season, third baseman Chase Headley said the Padres’ success this season stands alone. “What did carry over was the confidence that we could win,” Headley said. “We had basically the same bunch of guys here with a few additions, but playing well late in the season gave us the confidence that we could play well.” The Padres have played especially well at Petco Park, notching a 10-2 record at home in March. With an athletic lineup and strong pitching, new general manager Jed Hoyer and the Padres front office may have assembled the best-suited team for a stadium that isn’t exactly powerfriendly. “This team is a lot more athletic than we have been in the past,” Headley said. “We still have guys that can hit home runs, but in this ballpark you’re not going to sit back and wait for a three-run home run because it doesn’t happen that often.” The Padres finished March tied for first in the National League in stolen bases with 25, looking to advance runners and manufacture runs whenever they could. Headley accounted for a team-high seven of that total. “You may not be able to go out there and steal a bag every time you get on,” Headley said. “But when you make the pitcher think about you, he may not be as focused on the hitter as he would be otherwise.” As a rookie last season, Headley rotated between left field and third base before becoming the team’s everyday starter at third after the offseason trade that sent then-incumbent Kevin Kouzmanoff to Oakland. It may be a coincidence, but Headley has posted a career .327 average at the plate while starting all of the Padres’ games at third in April. “I definitely feel more comfortable at third base,” Headley said. “I’m having more fun in there, and it’s somewhere where I feel like I can excel and help this team win the most games.” After a good start to the 2010 campaign, Headley doesn’t see the Padres

PADRES’ UPCOMING HOME OPPONENTS Dodgers — May 14-16 Giants — May 17-18 Cardinals — May 25-27 Nationals — May 28-30 Mets — May 31-June 2

Chase Headley has posted a career .327 average at the plate while starting all of the PHOTO COURTESY SAN DIEGO PADRES Padres’ games at third base in April.

slowing down. Without a doubt, the team has already made strides from a rough 2009 season. “We’re young so a lot of people don’t expect us to do that well. But we’re young

and talented — it’s not like we’re a bunch of scrubs that are up here just to play,” Headley said. “We’re a good, solid bunch of players and I feel like we can even be better than we are right now.”

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MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

PAGE 16 | MAY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS Open 7 Days a Week, 8am to 7pm 516 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

Search entire Southern California’s Multiple Listing Services for over 100,000+ listed properties with virtual tours and photos at

www.sellsandiego.com

Downtown · “CityFront Terrace”

Downtown · “Electra”

Rarely available, this total remodel in the prime, Southwest corner, 11th-floor location of the building dazzles! You'll enjoy sweeping water & bridge views, over 1550 square feet, dual parking and storage, and a private and spacious view terrace! You will definitely want to call this amazing residence 'home'! For full details in a recorded message,

You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world at this 33rd floor, northwest corner luxury residence complete with dual terraces, dual parking, gleaming hardwood and stone finishes & never-ending water views! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5539

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5379

Downtown · “The Mark” A truly amazing residence, this combined property boasts over 2300 square feet with a modifiable and flexible floor plan! Featuring multiple balconies, four parking spaces and views directly into the ballpark and the Coronado bridge beyond, the residence must be seen to be believed! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5279

Downtown · “Renaissance”

“Electra” Builder Close-Out

Downtown · “Pinnacle”

Boasting one of the best water views in the Marina District, this 20th-floor penthouse-level residence features over 2,000 square feet! Original owner recrafted the interior by creating an open living space and a gourmet kitchen to die for! Four balconies and dual side-by-side parking, too! For full details in a recorded message,

Bosa Development has selected us to market their few remaining luxury residences at one of Downtown’s most unique and desirable residential communities! Boasting elegant finishes and common amenities par excellence! Take advantage of these blow-out prices today! Starting at $349,000! For full details in a recorded message,

Just listed, this elegant and expansive residence in the premium Southwest corner of the community boasts fabulous water views, beautifully upgraded interior, dual terraces and dual parking spaces. It doesn't get any better than this! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5469

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5139

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5129

“Segal Live/Work Rowhome”

Downtown · “Electra”

Downtown · “The Grande”

Downtown · “Park Place”

Truly one-of-a-kind, this award-winning masterpiece offers the ultimate in urban living! Ideally located in the Marina District, the residence includes approximately 2,300 square feet of “hip” architecture PLUS a separate, 700-square-foot work loft / granny-flat, or entertainer’s mecca, with home theater & wet-bar. A “must see”! For full details in a recorded message,

Featuring a spacious, open floor plan with the den-wall removed to expand the never-ending views, this spectacular, 19th-floor, Southwest corner beauty boasts custom built-ins, upgraded lighting, hand-painted murals, and a multitude of other quality appointments. Live the good life! For full details in a recorded message,

You'll enjoy one of the community's most popular floorplans with two bedrooms + a full den, two baths, and almost 1700 square feet. Lovely Northwest corner views to the ocean are yours and you will love the banks of windows taking in the vistas. Common areas are the best! For full details in a recorded message,

You’ll want to see this wonderful residence with lovely Southwest views, dual balconies, expansive stone flooring and an ambient 2-sided fireplace in one of the Marina District’s most sought-after communities! May convey furnished! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5159

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5339

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5479

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5409

Downtown · “The Grande” Featuring an upgraded and pristine interior, this lovely residence enjoys gleaming cherry hardwood floors, a bay view terrace, a black granite kitchen with glass tile back-splash and stainless appliances, dual secured parking spaces, and may convey “furnished” with a strong offer! Stunning! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5369

Downtown · “Harbor Club” You’ll want to make this lovely residence your home or home-away-from-home! Featuring stunning views to the South and East, it enjoys an oversize view terrace and two terrific parking spaces near the entrance. This resort-style community is located in the heart of the Marina District. For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5109

Do you need to sell & owe more on your home than it is now worth? Perhaps you should consider short-selling.

Downtown · “Renaissance”

Downtown · “La Vita”

You'll want to see this premium, West-facing, highly-upgraded residence in one of the Marina District's most desirable luxury highrise communities! Gleaming hardwood and stone flooring, unique cable lighting, Venetian plaster & remote-controlled motorized drapes are just the beginning! For full details in a recorded message,

New on the market, this three-bedroom residence features lovely Northwest views to the ocean, dual balconies, walk-in closets in all three bedrooms, and two secured parking spaces. Walk to everything the Little Italy community has to offer! For full details in a recorded message,

SH PE OR ND T S ING AL E Downtown · “Pinnacle” Enjoy panoramic, 26th-floor city and Coronado Bay Bridge views from this pictureperfect, two-bedroom residence in one of the Marina District’s most popular, luxury, residential high-rise communities! Wall to a multitude of restaurants and entertainment venues from this beautifully located development! For full details in a recorded message,

Time is of the essence, so please contact us as soon as possible and let us use our considerable experience to help guide you through this challenging process. There is no obligation! Visit our web site at www.SellSanDiego.com, click on the resources button, and watch a short video which explains short sales in more detail, or call us at

Hillcrest · “Century Plaza Towers”

Downtown · “Breeza”

Enjoy almost 1500 square feet of upgrades in the area's landmark luxury high-rise hear Balboa Park! Featuring dual parking spaces and brand new Plantation shutters throughout, this pristine residence also includes a full-size aundry room, lovely views from its northeast corner location, and a private terrace! For full details in a recorded message,

Brand new construction, choose from the ideal “starter” one-bedroom to the premier, southwest corner, 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence with stunning water and bayfront views! The heart of the community is its center courtyard, complete with a pool and spa, and scenic patios and lush, tropical landscaping! For full details in a recorded message,

1.800.221.2210

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5149

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5069

SH PE OR ND T S ING AL E

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5119

SH PE OR ND T S ING AL E

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5439

A short sale is a great tool which enables you to avoid foreclosure and lessen potential long-term damage to your credit rating as well as the negative tax implications you may experience on a foreclosure. Short sales are not easy nor are they fun, but they can save sellers from having a foreclosure on their credit record for up to 10 years, and in many cases, allow them to obtain a new loan in as little as 2 years.

Downtown · “Acqua Vista Short Sale”

Downtown · “CityFront Terrace”

Downtown · “Alta”

Downtown · “Icon”

Downtown · “Meridian”

Hurry hurry to take advantage of this great SHORT-SALE opportunity in super convenient Little Italy locale! Priced to sell, this one-bedroom includes a private terrace and granite kitchen! The community boasts a pool, spa, fitness center, and security! For full details in a recorded message,

Explore the opportunities available at Downtown's only brick residential community and take advantage of this below-market, SHORT-SALE opportunity! The iconic Old Soap Factory is the cornerstone of the building and adds an historic element. For full details in a recorded message,

Listed a year ago at approximately $200,000 more, this super SHORT SALE is a rare opportunity to enjoy a prime, 14th floor, northwest corner beauty in one of Downtown’s most exciting, newer communities, complete with stunning views, an oversize terrace, gleaming hardwood floors, & top-quality finishes and upgrades throughout! Take advantage! For full details in a recorded message,

This new listing is the ideal first-time buyer opportunity! The split-level loft design is tres cool, and the unit enjoys the unique distinction of being one of few residences located in the historic Carnation Building facade! Hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, cement accents and exposed ductwork for starters! For full details in a recorded message,

The ideal second home or primary residence, this east-facing residence is in wonderful condition and boasts wonderful night-time views of the city lights and urban surroundings! Meridian is Downtown San Diego’s own “Trump Tower,” complete with service and amenities beyond compare! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, ext. 5399

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5489

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5309

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5099

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5259

Downtown · “Harbor Club”

Downtown · “Electra”

Downtown · “Icon”

Sold for $1,650,000. Enjoy over 2,500 square feet of luxury and expansive views to the West, South, and East from this elegant residence! The warm and inviting interior boasts gleaming marble flooring, walls of windows taking in the views, three bedrooms, three walk-in closets, and three bathrooms. A bonus is the three secured parking spaces! For full details in a recorded message,

Sold for $340,000. Amazingly priced under $400,000, this street-level row home in the original historical façade of the SDG&E Station B features street access as well as interior hallway access, rich hardwood floors, dual, separated master suites, and a granite and stainless kitchen! For full details in a recorded message,

Sold for $295,000. The ideal Downtown starter property and NOT a short sale or REO, this pristine one-bedroom residence in East Village’s “hippest” residential community enjoys hardwood floors, a private terrace, secured parking, and a gleaming granite and stainlesssteel kitchen! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5219

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5329

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5319

Downtown · “Park Row” Sold for $225,000. The ideal first-time buyer property, this lower level one-bedroom in one of the Marina District’s original communities includes a private patio with storage and secured parking. The community includes security guard, pool, spa, and meeting room PLUS lots of guest parking for a lower-thanaverage HOA fee! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5359

LE NG SA NDI PE

SH PE OR ND T S ING AL E

LD SO

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5239

Downtown · “Columbia Place”

Downtown · “ParkLoft Short Sale”

Absolutely pristine, this very upgraded residence overlooking the scenic center courtyard boasts a private terrace and custom Murphy-bed unit with queen bed and office system! Better yet, it comes fully furnished and is priced under $300,000! For full details in a recorded message,

Almost 1,700 square feet of classic “loft” design are in evidence, including high ceilings, cement walls and ceilings, exposed ductwork, & custom lighting. A room-size, organized walk-in closet is a dream! Take advantage of this super, below-market opportunity! For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5179

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5349

1-800-221-2210 www.sellsandiego.com Before you put your home on the market call for a FREE Marketing Package It’s only a buyer’s market if you BUY! When it’s over, where will YOU be living? Independently owned and operated of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Neuman & Neuman does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of the information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.

Independently owned and operated of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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MAY 2010 | VOL. 11, NO. 5

Deborah Butterfield’s piece called “Conure” is a slightly larger-than-life, blue, yellow and red horse made from found metal on exhibit at the SDSU Gallery. WILL BOWEN | Downtown News

SDSU Gallery opens with alumni show BY WILL BOWEN | DOWNTOWN NEWS

The 98.1 Smooth Jazz Festival arrives in the Gaslamp on May 29 BY BART MENDOZA | DOWNTOWN NEWS There are many music-related events that take place in downtown San Diego, but none have had the longevity of the annual 98.1 Smooth Jazz Festival. Taking place this year on May 29 with two entrances, one at Fourth and G and one at Fifth and Market, the day-long concert is now in its third decade, putting the spotlight on modern jazz, a sound inflected with soul, R&B and even the occasional dash of pop. This year’s event will feature two stages and sets from saxophonists Jeff Kashawa, Steve Cole, Kim Waters, Mindi Abair and Jackiem Joyner, as well as guitarists Nick Colionne and Brian Culbertson.

Closing out the night will be an all-star jam session with guitarists Peter White and Jeff Gulub, with saxophonists Gerald Albright and Kirk Whalum. Meanwhile, 25 venues within the festival’s footprint will also feature a day of jazz and blues. With more than 10,000 music fans expected at the event, it’s clear that jazz will be the soundtrack to downtown’s Memorial Day weekend. “This is a concert that almost takes care of itself,” said Natasha Collins, promotions coordinator with KIFM. “It’s developed a strong following over the years, becoming something that our audience really looks forward to.” She noted that the main stage artists all receive regular airplay on the station. While

SMOOTH JAZZ 98.1 FESTIVAL WHEN: Saturday, May 29, noon. WHERE: Two entrances: Fourth and G, and Fifth and Market . COST: $29, 21 and up MORE INFO: www.kifm.com

the emphasis on the two outdoor stages is squarely on national acts, Collins said that with more than 30 local performers taking part in the club stages, all bases are covered. “All the different bands in the various restaurants and bars in the area really add to the experience,” she said. Although other large-scale events have had problems drawing fans in recent years, The Smooth Jazz Festival has seen growth. “Last year was the first time it sold out,” said the Gaslamp Quarter Association’s Heather Ashby. While there are no plans currently to expand

The old “Electra” or SDG&E “Station #B” building located across the street from the Santa Fe Depot at the intersection of Broadway and Kettner, which was out of operation for the past 20 some years, has been resuscitated and revitalized by Bosa Development Corporation, which has transformed the building into residential units while retaining the original Spanish revitalization/art deco exterior. In a very generous move, Bosa donated space on the bottom floor to San Diego State University (SDSU) so it could open a downtown art gallery. The SDSU Gallery opened April 9 with a show titled “Divergence.” It features the work of three of SDSU’s most prominent art department alumni — John Baldessari, Deborah Butterfield and Andre Zittel. John Baldessari, considered to be a conceptual artist, earned his BA from SDSU in 1953 and an MA in 1957. He has taught at UCSD, Cal Arts, and UCLA. Two of his works are on display in the gallery: a photographic self portrait titled “Wrong (Version #2),” and a colorized, reworked photographic collage called “Two Fish.” Deborah Butterfield, who attended SDSU from 1966 to 1968, is known for her exclusive concentration on the artistic representation of horses in metal and wood. She is a professor at the University of Wisconsin, Madison and also Montana State, Bozeman. She has one large piece in the gallery titled “Conure.” It is a slightly larger-than-life, blue, yellow and red horse made from found metal. It is the highlight of the whole exhibit. Andre Zittel earned her BA from SDSU in 1988 and is a professor at USC. She is a leading figure in the art and design field. Zittel has three pieces on display: a work of brown and black yarn art woven into a geometric form and framed, and two unusual, somewhat difficult to understand modernist furniture installations composed of carpet, wood and shelves, with objects such as baby food jars, coffee pot, cups and radio.

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URBAN LIVING ArtRocks: a lively new talk show Alexandra (Bling Bling) Rosa and Lou Magdaleno.Their tagline for the ArtRocks 24/7 Online TV & Radio show is: “Where fashion, art and Show recently launched from the lifestyle collide.” Gaslamp Quarter at 345 Sixth Ave., The hour-long talk show f eacombining radio with high-definition tures guests ever y Tuesday, from cameras. 7 to 8 p.m. Listeners are able to see and hear This new talk show is the sister the program on their computers. The show to wsradio.com, which has vivacious co-hosts of this show are been on the air for eight years. BY DIANA CAVAGNARO | DOWNTOWN NEWS

It’s all Happening! Marc & Darlynne Menkin Alexandra Rosa and Lou Magdaleno with artist Bryan Synder at the ArtRocks 24/7 Online Photo by Diana Cavagnaro TV & Radio Show studio in the Gaslamp Quarter.

This is our favorite time of the year. The days are longer, the air is warmer, our canyons are green and full of flowers, and line drives are again landing in the ballpark. To top it off, all sorts of cool things are happening downtown. • The House of Blues is celebrating its fifth anniversary on Saturday, May 22 with a unique event that will benefit A Reason to Survive, a non-profit organization that creates innovative arts-based programs to help deserving kids who are facing life challenges. Southern food, a hosted bar and a musical performance by ARTS Livicated Youth Ensemble are all part of the festivities. Many locals still haven’t seen a concert in the downstairs area at House of Blues. • Anthology is another place to see live music, but on June 2 through 6, the popular venue will magically transform into an impressive setting of circus acts and performers when il Circo comes to town. Each show will feature unforgettable gravity-defying acrobat-

ics and dance movements. We’re extra captivated because the show features a story of a journey that follows a child’s dream. “We’re extremely excited about this show,” said Anthology owner Marsha Berkson. “Because Anthology is an intimate venue, guests will see an amazing performance up close and personal. It will be an interesting perspective.” • The downtown art scene has a new and exciting space. Alexander Salazar Fine Art recently opened its doors on the corner of Seventh and Broadway, an area not exactly known for upscale art. “When I first told people I was opening a gallery in this area, they said I was crazy,” Alex Salazar said. “But I’m excited because this is my home. I live downtown and I strongly believe in investing in my neighborhood.” On May 22, artists Justin Bower and Chris Trueman will be on hand at a special meet and greet reception from 5 to 9 p.m. Alex’s fun personality will

Rosa is the executive producer and co-host with Philly Swendoza on the wsradio show, which airs on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 8 p.m. During the eight years of being on wsradio.com, Rosa has made a mark in San Diego by interviewing the likes of Paul Stanley, lead singer from SEE ART ROCKS, page B3 certainly make this a colorful event. He always has interesting stories to share with customers, so don’t expect the typical, stuffy art reception. • You’ve probably noticed film crews shooting throughout the Gaslamp Quarter. The city’s film commission insiders tell us it’s “Terriers,” a new FX show that will air in the fall. The comedic drama stars Donal Logue and Michael Raymond-James. It centers on Hank Dolworth, an ex-cop who launches an unlicensed private investigation business with best friend Britt Pollack. Struggling with maturity issues, the two solve crimes while avoiding danger and responsibility. Make sure your smile and swagger is camera ready if you spot the film crew. • And finally, look for fireworks after the Friday night Padre games. In May, it’s May 14 and 28. June fireworks happen on June 11 and 18. The rooftop lounges at the Indigo Hotel, the Marriott Gaslamp and Hotel Solamar are sweet spots to see the sky being painted. — Marc & Darlynne Menkin are the co-owners of Where You Want To Be Tours. Many of their tours and teambuilding scavenger hunts feature secret downtown areas. www.wheretours.com

PERFORMING ARTS CONTINUED FROM Page B2

KISS; Grace Slick, Peter Max and Zandra Rhodes. Rosa and Magdaleno are dynamic interviewers, making for a very entertaining show. Rosa has worked in many male-dominated industries. After college graduation, she worked as a Wall Street analyst, being the youngest and only woman employee at her firm. After that high-stress job, she returned to San Diego to work for C Spa, helping to elevate it from one to eighteen spas. She eventually met Swendoza, who had a show on Bravo called “Arts Now.” They formed a partnership and switched to the Internet. Magdaleno grew up in California and went to law school in Northern California. He became a corporate lawyer and has done litigation for years. For six years he ran an advertising company in Hollywood. He met Rosa on an on-line website and moved to San Diego 1 ½ years ago. On a recent visit to the show, wine and food were waiting for all the guests. Every week they have a restaurant and wine company as a sponsor who donate sto the show. The guests for the evening were Zandra Rhodes, who talked about her “Aida” exhibition at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library in La Jolla; Fred Sweet, founder of the La Jolla Fashion Film Festival; Syrian singing sensation Zavaro; and artist Bryan Synder. To watch this show tune in to www.sdonlineradio.com/shows/art-rocks.

Zandra Rhodes, Alexandra Rosa and Lou Magdaleno on the set. Photo by Diana Cavagnaro

The Welk Resorts Theatre proudly announces the casting of Footloose – The Musical opening May 6th – June 27th The Welk has assembled a cast of seasoned veterans whose credits include Broadway, Touring and Regional theatre, professionals for Los Angles and San Diego and some new, fresh talent from San Diego and Orange County. Broadway veteran Cynthia Ferrer, local professional and favorite Eileen Bowman and a cast of 14 others round this spectacular cast of singing and dancing energies! Based on the 1984 musical film starring Kevin Bacon and John Lithgow, this Tony Award nominated musical characterizes the youth in all of us that just wants to “cut loose” and not be bound by the challenges and obstacles that life might present us. It is a heartfelt journey that reflects the survivor in everyone; representing the joy, the trials and tribulations, the love, and the passion to follow ones dreams – all rooted in the necessity of family representing the power to rise from tragedy with reason, purpose and integrity. Filled with classic songs by Dean Pitchford, Tom Snow and Kenny Loggins, this musical jukebox brings out an energy and drive like no other musical. Let’s Hear It For the Boy, Almost Paradise, Holding Out for a Hero and the explosive title song Footloose are just a few of the iconic songs brought to life in this dance driven piece. These energetic and moving songs, each a pop single in their own right, are woven dramatically in a dynamic and entertaining way into the show’s story. Opening May 6th – June 27th at the Welk Resort San Diego Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Dr. Escondido, CA 92026 For tickets please call 1-888-802-7469 or book tickets online, welktheatresandiego.com

SD Symphony, The Old Globe and the Beatles

ART ROCKS

Footloose - The Musical Welk Theatre Opening May 6th

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

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Charlene Baldridge May in downtown San Diego livens things up a bit. San Diego Symphony winds up its 2010 season with a scary film and incendiary music, The Old Globe presents two historical works and Broadway San Diego mines the Beatles.

At the Old Globe • Playing through May 30, Tovah Feldshuh stars as Golda Meir in William Gibson’s one-woman play, “Golda’s Balcony.” The work follows Meir from Russian immigrant to American schoolteacher to leader of international policy as Israel’s fourth prime minister. • Saturday, May 8 through June 13, Matthew Lopez’ “The Whipping Man” plays in the White Theatre. The piece is set in the final days of the Civil War and concerns a Confederate soldier who returns to find his former slaves occupying the ruins of his former home. Tickets ($29-$77): www.theoldglobe.com or (619) 23-GLOBE.

The San Diego Symphony Winter Pops presents the “Silent Film Night” showing of F. W. Murnau’s “NosCOURTESY PHOTO fertu” May 7 through 8.

orchestra as if the original soundtrack to accompany the screening. Tickets are $20At the Civic Theatre May 14-16 (8 p.m. Friday; 2 and 8 p.m. $30. May 14-16 (8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2 Saturday; 1 and 6 p.m. Sunday), Broadway San Diego presents “Rain: a Tribute to the p.m. Sunday) Jahja Ling conducts the JacobBeatles,” which covers the Fab Four in mul- s’ Masterworks Concert featuring Igor timedia with live music and vocals. Tickets Stravinisky’s “Rite of Spring,” Richard ($20-$77): Window sales 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Strauss’ “An Alpine Symphony.” Nuvi Mehta Mondays-Fridays, 1100 Third Ave. or (619) delivers “What’s the Score,” to tell you more about the music 45 minutes prior to the con570-1100 or www.ticketmaster.com cert. Tickets for lecture with your admission At Copley Symphony Hall May 7-8 San Diego Symphony Winter price of $20-$93. Pops presents “Silent Film Night” showing of For more information go to F. W. Murnau’s “Nosfertu” (1922), starring www.sandiegosymphony.org Max Schreck. Gillian Anderson conducts the or phone (619) 235-0804

10 reasons to have your hearing tested in May: • Untreated hearing loss can have considerable social and cognitive effects. • Seeing an Audiologist can help explain why you can hear people talking but cannot understand them. • Most insurances cover hearing exams. • 3 in 10 people over the age of 60 have a hearing loss. • 65% of individuals with hearing loss are under the age of 60.

• You should be able to hear the television without your neighbors hearing it too. • New technology in hearing aids makes better hearing easier. • 70% of those who use hearing aids report a decrease in the ringing in their ears. • Because your family, friends and/or neighbors have told you to. • May is Better Hearing Month!

May is Better Hearing Month!

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Tovah Feldshuh stars as Golda Meir in William Gibson’s one-woman play “Golda’s Balcony,” playing COURTESY PHOTO through May 30 at the Old Globe.

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

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JAZZ

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Francesca Baglietto, an exchange student from Italy, reflected on the new gallery and said that she thought the space was, “intimate and uncluttered, giving you the opportunity to focus on each piece and connect with it.” The current exhibit will run for almost year. Curator Catherine Gleason (MA in Art History, UC Riverside) said, “This will give the gallery plenty of time to settle in, appreciate the location, become familiar with the downtown environment and get to know our potential audiences.”

the show’s boundaries, Ashby said the additional 25 venue stages, including such area mainstays as Croce’s, Patrick’s II and Dick’s Last Resort, give attendees the opportunity to take in a huge cross section of artists. “Involving the restaurants in the footprint allows for so much more music to be heard and allows listeners to experience the great dining options in the area,” she said. She also considers the Smooth Jazz Festival’s hours to be part of the appeal. “This is one of the few events like this held downtown that takes place largely during daylight hours,” Ashby said. “The fact that it’s a full day, into the evening, happening, really lends itself to taking in what the surrounding area has to offer.” Guitarist Patrick Yandall, appearing at Henry’s Pub, has played the event sever-

Art and design installations by Andre Zittel on exhibit at the SDSU Gallery.

WILL BOWEN | Downtown News

Mindi Abair at the Smooth Jazz Festival in Photo by KENDALL DIXON 2009.

al times in the past decade. While he wishes some local acts could be showcased on the main stages, he’s more than happy to be a part of the festival. He does see a major plus to playing the smaller venues. “One thing about playing the clubs is that the audience is right in front of you,” he said. “And you feel they are feeling every note.” While Blue Largo guitarist Eric Lieberman, who will appear at Hennessey’s at 4 p.m., considers the day “just another opportunity to play,” he does consider that the crowds at these “special event gigs are often better than a regular club gig.” Meanwhile, local blues legend Len Rainey and his band, The Midnight Players, make their event debut at Patrick’s II (3-6 p.m.) and consider it a major plus for area performers. “I haven’t played this festival before, but I’m sure there will be crossover from stage to stage,” Rainey said. “This is a good event because people from different backgrounds in music get to see and hear something different.”

FASHION

MAY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

The Spring Fashion Show, Thread and a housewife Fashion Files

The Thread Show

The Thread Show returned to San Diego with a new venue at Fourth and Broadway in Horton Plaza. The festivities began with a pre-party at the W 'Viva la Moda!' Hotel on April 10, featuring designers Vista Hills presented the 19th annual and models. The next day was the oneSpring Fashion Show and Luncheon on day-only curated Indie Design & Fashion April 9 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Thread Show on April 11. There was a downtown. The festivities began with scurry of happy shoppers going from boutique shopping, silent auction and a booth to booth buying many unique and social hour. one-of-a-kind items sold at wholesale Laura Applegate and prices. Rotating DJs were playing tunes Tania Luviano were co- and entertaining the audience. In addichairs of the event and tion to clothing there was a selection of Diane Keltner was the hon- art and furniture for the shoppers. orary chair. Mistress of cereThe ECO section always has some monies was Pat Brown of exciting designers. Cirello, a gallery locatKGTV Channel 10. ed on Ray Street, was there to show their The theme for the afternoon was “Viva la Moda” and all the tables were colorfully decorated. This upbeat fashion show was choreographed and coordinated by Gretchen Productions. The entertaining show had a fabulous combination of music, fashion and dance. The young singers Francis Florendo and MacKenzie Holmes moved the audience to a standing ovation. Jesus Estrada and Lizz Russell were two designers on hand who walked the catwalk after they presented their collection in this highly-polished show. Proceeds for this Vista Hill event went to Supporting Adolescents and Families in Recovery, Don Allen ParentCare Family Recovery Center and Stein Models at the Thread Show.

Diana Cavagnaro

Above: Jesus Estrada with model strolling down the catwalk. Right: Model wearing Lizz Russell designs at Vista Hills' Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon. DIANA CAVAGNARO | Downtown News

Education Center that serves students with autism and developmental disabilities.

cuffs, earrings and rings made from recycled 316 steel. Micha Design incorporates vintage into her designs making each a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. There was a clothing swap and each person could donate their gently-used clothes or swap them for someone else’s. The biggest way to reduce your carbon footprint of course is to shop local. The big crowd pleaser is always the fashion show. This was a wonderful opportunity to meet emerging and new designers surrounded in an atmosphere of art, music and libations. The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising had a contest to have three students drape an outfit in one hour. The audience was able to watch them work and vote for their favorite design. The next Thread Show will be in September. For more information check out threadshow.com. SEE FASHION, Page B8

DIANA CAVAGNARO | Downtown News

PAGE B6 | MAY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS CANNISSE

A French brand based in the south of France, Cannisse has been creating fashion and accessories for women for over 27 years. The designer at Cannisse has been creating every collection since the brand's inception there fore evolving, but staying true to Cannisse signature style throughout the seasons. Every collection is exclusively created by Cannisse's very own manufactures in France and Europe. Each piece is unique and reflects the brand's contemporary style which can be defined as "chic sportswear" with very elegant yet extremely comfortable lines. The creativity of the designs involves playing with a variety of materials and shapes to create asymmetry and an incomparable fit. A true designer brand, Cannisse carefully selects its fabrics to ensure maximum quality, comfort and wearability. Cannisse distinguishes two main seasons, each of them requiring the use of different fabrics: -the winter collection is mainly based on knitwear with garments principally made out of natural yarns, boiled wool, virgin wool and cotton. -the summer collection is exclusively made out of the finest linen and cotton.

R A W R O F N O I H FAS SA

To this date and 25 years of "Pet a Porter show Paris" later, the brand is distributed in more than 200 shops in France and 300 worldwide. Cannisse has a strong presence on the US market where the brand is distributed in 150 stores including Neiman Marcus to name a few. Cannisse is now entering its 6th season in the US and has been actively participating to a variety of trade fairs-the LA Fashion Market, the Cala San Francisco Mart, the Atlanta Mart, the WTC Dallas, the Stylemax in Chicago and the Coterie in New York-for the past 3 years. Faced with an increasing demand for its designs and armed with a great knowledge of the market, Cannisse has opened its 1st boutique in San Diego in November, 2008. In the heart of Little Italy, come see Michael Lambert to be fitted for Summer.

G DIE

Oâ€™S

IO SH

O N F

C RE

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1772 KETTNER AVE. SAN DIEGO, CA. 92101 619-255-9297

South of France Spring Fashion Heart of Little Italy 1772 Kettner SD, CA 92101 619.255.9297

www.cannise.com

Both dresses by Jennifer Grace

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS | MAY 2010 | PAGE B7

CREDITS

Photography: James Norton Keel Wardrobe styling: Alexa Parashos (cultcultureclothing.com) and Shayna Photography Assistants: Mark-Paul Barro and Jered Mercer Models: Alexa Parashos and Kelsey Stuart Hair and Makeup: downtown by A Style Concierge Salon uptown by

Jeans from Always in, top from Always in, Bracelet from Disconnected

Disconnected Salon

Stylists own dress, necklace from Mona Lisa

electric music studios the rock & roll academy

Necklace from Mona Lisa

Alexa wears sunglasses from A Style Concierge Boutique, necklace from Pretty Is

Performance based music program for kids 6-18. Guitar, Bass, Drums, Keyboard & Vocal Lessons. Let us bring out your childâ€™s inner rock star... Affordable rates & great teachers!

FREE 30 MINUTE MUSIC LESSON for either guitar, bass, drums, vocal or keyboards Call 619.222.0836 to schedule your complimentary lesson. Expires 06/07/10

4944 Newport Ave (inside The ElectricChair, suite D) h 619.222.0836 electricmusicstudios.com h myspace.com/electricmusicstudios

FASHION

THURSDAY · APRIL 29, 2010 LA JOLLA VILLAGE NEWS

O CHEA" MEANS "ONLY CHEA"

FASHION

Our New Spring Line Has Arrived! The fashions are made for all ages and all of the clothing line is hand-beaded or customized just for you. There is a elegant but bold statement that you make when wearing the O'Chea' line. This spring the dresses are soft and sexy with simple touches of gold trim, pearls, diamond stones and ocean rock stones. These dress and pant suits are suitable for Downtown dinning or after five events and every occasion. Ladies, make your first impression when entering the room. O'Chea will make you feel special and design you a one of a kind prom or gala dress for all to admire. The O'Chea line is meant for every discretionary spending budget. The fashion line ranges from $75.00 to $300.00 dollars. The spring line is complemented with eye catching hats, t-shirts, beads, and pearls and look's hot with a pair of heels and jeans.

CONTINUED FROM Page B5

More than a Housewife

If you have any questions or would like a pre-launch private viewing call us at (619) 283-2166.

O’Cheá Launches New Spring Line Just For You! One of a kind dresses, tees & hats hand-beaded with studs, diamonds and pearls! Vicki Gunvalson from “The Real Housewives of Orange County.”

DIANA CAVAGNARO | Downtown News

UPCOMING EVENTS

MAY 8TH San Diego Mesa College Fashion Show at 6 p.m., featuring student designs at the Gaslamp Horton Westin. For information contact Andrea Marx, (619) 388-2206. MAY 12TH Fashion Group International presents the Fall/Winter Trends and a guided tour of the “San Diego Style” exhibit at the San Diego History Center in Balboa Park at 6 p.m. For more information, call (619) 670-9980.

MAY 19TH The Butterfly Effect at the Museum of Photographic Arts at 6:30 p.m. Fashion show will feature Mila Hermanovski (“Project Runway 7”) and Christopher Straub (“Project Runway 6”) For information, visit jennadruck.org.

MAY 20TH Fashionista Trunk Show at the W Hotel Beach Roof Top at 7 p.m.

Unique Mother’s Day Gift Ideas!

For information, visit jennadruck.org.

MAY 20TH The Gold Diggers 17th Annual Hats off to San Diego with the

O’Cheá

Exclusively at Extensiones Boutique 4535 30th St. #112, Downtown

theme “Through the Looking Glass.” For information, call Leslie Carter at (858) 750-2104.

619.283.2166

JUNE 4TH“It” Spring 2010 Fashion Show presented by the Art Institute of

Hours: Tues-Fri 10:30-6 Sat 9:30-6

California, San Diego with fashion show themed “Urban Garden” presented by Gretchen Productions at the Convention Center. For more information, contact Jaye Brown at (858) 598-1333.

Vicki Gunvalson, star of “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” came to San Diego for a personal appearance March 21 at the Little Italy Inn. Fans from as far as Sacramento came to meet her. Viewers tune in each week to see what they will be wearing and what they will buy when they go shopping. The housewives are always sporting the latest trends in fashion. Gunvalson was wearing a custom dress by Jeffrey Parrish and earrings from Miriam Jewels, two local designers. Gunvalson, also known as the Whohoo Girl) was here for a book signing. The book is named “More than a Housewife” and everyone who attended got to hear her read a passage from it. I found Vicki to be a caring person who wanted to use her notoriety to help others. She spent 5 minutes talking with each person as she was signing his or her book. At the end of the day Lynne Curtin, who is one of the other housewives, showed up and surprised everyone. Proceeds form the event benefit the San Diego Symphony Education and Outreach. Diana Cavagnaro is a nationally-recognized hat designer and milliner. She has operated a fashion business for 28 years, the last 18 years in downtown Gaslamp Quarter. Diana has taught in the Fashion Department at San Diego Mesa College for 18 years. She is an active member of the Gaslamp Quarter Association, The American Sewing Guild, the San Diego Costume Council and Fashion Group International. www.aheadproductions.com

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS | MAY 2010 | PAGE B9

PETS IN THE CITY Docent can’t see, but Musket can B10

MAY 2010

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

Dog helps man guide visitors through Air and Space Museum BY JOHNNY MCDONALD | DOWNTOWN NEWS The San Diego Air and Space Museum can’t afford to make any floor changes unless they notify volunteer docent Mark Carlson and his partner. A relocation here or there might throw them off course. Carlson is blind and his assisting partner is his seeing-eye dog, Musket. Carlson and Musket know the way around the place quite well. “I do the talking and he does the walking, easily working our way through early flight, golden age, the trimotor, Phantom and the MiG-17,” Carlson said. The likable docent in the red coat is a wealth of information, having studied four months to enter the docent fraternity. “I like to tell the stories,” he said. He spent 100 hours learning what was there and obtained everything he could find on tape about the history of flight to fulfill guide requirements. “When I get in, I ask about any changes,” he said. “Maybe they’ve moved the Spitfire or Warhawk around. Then I go out there and use my foot and

PET OF THE MONTH

glove for location so Musket knows where they are. If you just lined up the Spitfire, the GB, Skyhawk and Jenny I could identify them. There’s an intimacy I have with these planes.” He laughingly compares his situation with an old joke about the parents of Helen Keller punishing her by changing the furniture. “I walk up to a group and tell them I’m their tour guide,” he said. “Then there’s a moment of dead silence. I’m sure there are a lot of raised eyebrows.” His moment of embarrassment might come when he’s describing something on a wall and a member of the tour group says, “I don’t think it’s there anymore.” That’s why he checks first about any surprises. A one-time graphics designer, Carlson has been legally blind for 10 years. He has a hereditary disorder called retinitis pigmentosa. His father and brother are also blind. Carlson, 48, lives in Carmel Mountain Ranch, near Rancho Bernardo and commutes by bus. “I take the No. 20 to town, transfer to the 7, get off at President’s Way and

Mark Carlson and his partner, Musket, a COURTESY PHOTO guide dog.

walk to the museum,” he said. “When my eyesight became really bad in the late ‘90s I decided I had to do something else,” he said. “I got some training in blind skills, like mobility, living trends, cane use and braille. I had to find a different line of work.”

Musket models a space helmet while on duty helping his master at the San Diego Air and COURTESY PHOTO Space Museum.

He worked seven years for an agency that specialized in technology for disabilities but was laid off. “So, my wife finally said, ‘Honey, can’t you find something to get out of the

PETSbrief City Dog has a new location!

Neni

Submitted by Katherine Castaneda

After five years on the east side of the tracks, City Dog has moved directly across Park Boulevard from their old store. The new store has over 1,100 more square feet of space. The new store has a bright, airy spacious feeling. This space seems to be the perfect fit for what City Dog offers. There is a separate groomer’s room with its own grooming tub and enough space to have 2 groomers working at one time. City Dog now offers full- service grooming 7 days a week, for both cats and dogs. The self-service tubs have built-in steps for easier access in and out, and now there are multiple drying stations. ries. A second freezer for the raw food frozen raw foods. City Dog is also With more retail space there is better diet allows City Dog to carry Bravo, increasing their line of dry dog food and visibility of the products City Dog car- Natures Variety and Stella and Chewy’s now carries Natural Planet Organics and Nutri Source Pure Vita natural holistic pet foods in addition several more lines of healthy pet foods. The move although only across the streets was very exhausting. The trolleys did not want to coordinate with the move schedule so it was quite a scene to watch the parade of pet products crossing the tracks and street. Be sure to stop by and see the new store at 550 Park Blvd. You’ll be surprised and pleased to see the difference. 545 Park Blvd. East Village • 619-269-0201 www.citydogsd.com

house on the weekends?’” Carlson said, “By then I had Musket, a male, yellow labrador retriever, to help me,” Carlson said. “People now say, ‘There’s Musket and what’s his name.’”

Takin’Care of Whiz-Ness Dog Walker & Pet Sitter in Downtown San Diego

Grooming, Dogwash & Pet Supplies

San Diego Pet Supply (619) 263-2211 www.sandiegopetsupply.com

STORE HOURS Monday–Saturday : 9am–7pm 10am–4pm Sunday. Located at the corner of 15th & Market Street in San Diego’s East Village. www.sandiegopetsupply.com is still at at it. Eukanuba 46 lb bags of dog food will be held thru the end of April. What a deal 46 lbs of food for 39.99.We continue to provide the best for less. Please stop in and take advantage of the monthly sales in all areas of warehouse. Remember save big on all your pet supplies.Wellness brands have 15% savings just by mentioning this ad we must be crazy. This includes all canned goods as with dry formulas.Thanks again and have a dog-gone great day!!!

FREE

Self Serve Dog Wash

First-time clients only please.

Buy 12 Dog Walks Get 1 Dog Walk

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(619) 694~9525 www.TakinCareOfWhizNess.com

SUMMER CAMPS Playtime at Claytime

Go to SDNEWS.COM to sign up for a FREE one week of camp at

in La Jolla

Surf Diva

Junior Theatre Camp

Surf Diva Surf School is recognized world-wide and offers surfing & standup paddleboard (SUP) lessons year-round for men and women, boys and girls. Surf Diva owns and operates La Jolla Surf Camp (ages 5-10) and Australian Surf Academy (ages 11-17), both Day Camps offered from June to September for boys and girls at La Jolla Shores. Our expert and patient surf instructors are certified in CPR, First-Aid and Lifesaving. The instructors instill laughter with themed activities daily to offer a fun and safe environment for kids to learn beach safety, ocean awareness and surfing etiquette. Visits to the tide pools help them to understand and appreciate the sea life around them. Our camps also focus on building inner self confidence as well as learning to respect the environment. Whether your child is a beginner or has some surfing experience, the small groups allow our surf instructors to provide your child with proper coaching.

Come experience the magic of theatre arts! Spend the summer learning music, dance and acting skills with San Diego’s premiere theatre for youth. Junior Theatre camp faculty are artists who hold degrees in the arts and education. Three locations to choose from! Balboa Park is a wonderful setting that includes a supervised lunch period each day near the Botanical Gardens, where campers participate in games and tournaments. We are proud to offer camps at our La Jolla YMCA Firehouse location and at the Women’s Club in Chula Vista. Students, ages eight and above, who have enrolled in camp are eligible to audition for Disney’s My Son Pinocchio and Fame.

(858) 454-8273 Surf Diva Surf School & Surf Shop 2160 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037

Ocean Experience Surf & Skate Camp Ocean Experience offers boys and girls age 6 to 16 the most comprehensive surf and skate camps available. Since our first session in 1990, we have maintained the highest standards of instructional integrity, safety and supervision. Ocean Experience develops skills and confidence while empowering students to surf for life. Campers spend the week in small groups with professional coaches, teachers and surfers receiving individual attention and instruction. Our staff/student ratio of 1:4 ensures safety and security allowing students to progress at their own rate and comfort level. Through surfing, our students learn oceanography, and water safety while gaining repsect for the coastal environment. Friday afternoon BBQ and awards provide a unique closure to a week of exciting events and accomplishments. Our goal is for each camper to have a meaningful and memorable Ocean Experience. 619-225-0674

JuniorTheatre.com or (619) 239-1311

Claytime Ceramics Camps offer a good balance of indoor and outdoor activities. Children begin their day with a walk by the tidepools (one block away from the studio), followed by warmup exercises at the studio. On Mondays and Wednesdays we work onceramic painting projects in which children learn ceramic painting techniques (color blending and use of puffy paints). On Tuesdays and Thursdays the kids work on mosaic projects. Children create their own patterns, learn to apply adhesive and grout their own pieces. On Fridays we include fabric painting or sketching or jewelry making. And the week ends with an ice cream party in which the kids get to use the ice cream bowls they painted on Monday. All supplies are included. For reservations call 619-223-6050

Kid Ventures is ready for a Sizzling Summer! Kid Ventures is San Diego’s best indoor play village and parent cafe. We are gearing up for another sizzling summer with camps, regular drop in play, birthday parties, specialty classes and much more. Our 6000 square foot air conditioned facility is the perfect place to spend your summer with a two-story castle, pirate ship, child’s village with a market, fire station, theater, nursery,

THURSDAY · MAY 2010 DOWNTOWN NEWS

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THURSDAY · MAY 2010 DOWNTOWN NEWS

SUMMER CAMPS ’50’s diner, library and art studio. Our parent’s island offers free wireless internet and a cafe serving specialty tea/coffee, tasty treats, meals for kids and adults and the perfect Summer fruit smoothies. Check out some of our new and exciting improvements as we approach our one year anniversary this May. Kid Ventures is conveniently located off the I-5 Freeway in Pacific Beach — we are a sister company to Gym Ventures gymnastics which is right next door. Come and check us out! www.sdkidventures.com (858) 272-2266, 5066 Santa Fe Street, San Diego CA 92109

La Jolla YMCA’s Summer Camp Program From June 16th–September 4th. We will serve your children with compassion, patience, skill and respect. Our goal is to introduce children to as many new experiences as possible and help each child feel confident and secure in a fun camping environment. We are dedicated to shaping the lives of our youth and to create friendships and memories that last a lifetime. Our Day Camp offers Traditional Camps, Sports Camps, Gymnastics Camps, Specialty Camps (i.e., Indiana Jones, Fencing, Legoland, Equestrian, Wilderness Survival and much more) and Preschool Enrichment programs,

on a weekly basis. Please contact Grace Ihn for more information at 858-453-3483 Ext. 120 or gihn@ymca.org

MBAC Camp is now “The Watersports Camp” The exciting and popular day-camp at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center has changed its name and logo and is now known simply as “The Watersports Camp.” While the name has changed, the camp will continue to offer the same great services and camps for all levels in wakeboarding, waterskiing, surfing, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and marine science. In addition, the camp will offer a few new options this year, which include a full day small boat racing camp, and a half-day multi-sport camp. The camp has been in operation for over 30 years and is offered by Associated Students of SDSU, UCSD recreation and the Peninsula Family YMCA. The camp offers both spring break and summer camp sessions. Expect to be mpressed by their professional and friendly counselors and instructors. 858) 539-2003 www.watersportscamp.com

Summer Academy of the Arts The Winston School is hosting its annual Summer Academy of the Arts for students in grades 6–12 from July

12th to 30th, 2010. Focusing on a theatrical production, which this year is “Grease,” students have the opportunity to develop creativity in one or more art media — includiing visual arts, drama, digital arts, dance or music. Students produce a finished product and integrate their work with artists in other media such as a concert, a performance, or a film premiere. The Winston School inspires hope and success in bright, creative students who have struggled to realize their potential. The Summer Academy is Monday through Friday from 12:45 to 3:45 p.m. Tuition is $440 per student plus additional materials or trip fee if applicable. Please visit www. thewintsonschool.com or call 858-259-8155.

The Bishop’s School’s Summer Programs Summer Session – June 23 to July 23 – grades 4 to adult. Summer Session offers morning and afternoon classes for credit and enrichment. Openings available in arts, language arts, math, biology, chemistry, Spanish, SAT/ACT prep, Science & Math Camp for girls only and many others. Bishop’s Knights Sports Camps – June 21 to July 30 – grades 4 to 12 (co-ed). Full & half day and individual sessions in baseball, baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse, soccer, strength/agility, tennis, volleyball and water polo. Information, registration and fees are accessible through www.bishops.com/summerprograms, zedalisj@bishops.com or Sportscamps@bishops.com. Create your summer day at Bishop’s!

The Children’s School of La Jolla

Le Tour du Monde 2010

June 21–July 30 • Ages 3-5 & 6-12 • 9am–4pm

hrough a variety of fun-filled activities, children will enjoy the excitement of new languages — French, Chinese and Spanish. Learn about other cultures in theme-based activities, such as "Le Tour de France et d'Espagne," "Nature et découverte/Nature and Discovery," "Ia Ora Na! Summer Vacation in Tahiti;" "On the Road to South Africa: Soccer World Cup 2010," "Fun Chinese Summer Camp," "Uno dos tres vamonos," and much more! Starting at $285 per week. Extended day care available: 8:30–9 a.m. & 4–5 p.m.

Call for information

858-456-2807 6550 Soledad Mountain Rd., La Jolla

www.sdfrenchschool.org summercamp@sdfrenchschool.org

The Children’s School of La Jolla, winner of the 2008 Parent’s Pick Award for Best Summer Day Camp in San Diego, is offering unique fun and educational camps for Kindergarten – 8th grade children. Campers experience adventure, discovery & fun through a variety of half and full day camps ranging from academics (Edible Math, Literature Fun, Creative Writing & Poetry, Chess, Engineering Fundamentals, Future Architects & Reading Stars) and the arts (Dance, Pottery, Cartooning, Painting, Musical Theater, Rock-n-Roll Boot Camp & Claymation) to sports (Olympic & Theatrical Fencing, Golf, Cheerleading, Basketball, Football, Soccer & Yoga) and much more (So You Think You Can Cook, Digital Photography, Webkinz World, Robotics, Fashion & Interior Design, Technology, Movie Making, Video Game Design, NASA Space Camp, Jr. Detective, Behind the Scenes of Disney & Pixar, etc.) Register online at www.tcslj.org 2225 Torrey Pines Lane La Jolla 858.454.0184

Claytime’s

Summer Camp 2010 An Arts & Crafts Adventure Dates: June 14-18; 21-25; June 28-July 2; July 5-9; 12-16; 19-23; 26-30; Aug 2-6; 9-13; 16-20; 23-27, Aug 30-Sept 3

Ages 5 & Up Half-Day Full Day $30/Day • $125/Week $50/Day • $200/Week 9am-12pm M-F 9am-3pm M-F All Supplies, Snacks & Beverages Included

Activities Include: Ceramic Painting • Mosaics • Fabric Painting Acrylic Painting • Jewelry Making & More! Reservations: 619-223-6050 1863 Bacon St., Ocean Beach

SUMMER CAMPS not include Before and After Care; call or visit our website for more info). Sign-up for Summer Day Camp at one of Mission Valley YMCA’s convenient locations – our Friars Rd facility (5505 Friars Rd) in Mission Valley or Toby Wells YMCA (5105 Overland Ave) in Kearny Mesa. For more information, visit our website: www.missionvalley.ymca.org, or call 619-298-3576 for more information.

San Diego Surf School

Calling all budding naturalists! Enjoy a fun-filled learning experience at the San Diego Natural History Museum. Bring your friends or make new ones! Half-day camps and weekend classes engage children—from toddlers to teens—and inspire a love of nature though fun activities such as nature walks, games, experiments, arts and crafts, and more. Information and registration: 619.255.0203.

Learn from the professionals Advantage Basketball Camps were named by sports illustrated kids as one of the top camps in the country.Advantage Basketball Camps are nationally recognized as one of the Top ball handling camps in the world. Your child will learn a work ethic and life lessons that they will carry with them for the rest of their life's. Come meet one of the top coaching staffs in the world that will motivate and inspire your child. Learn from the pros. Our students will build on their ball-handling skills by learning lighting-quick, one-handed moves off the dribble. Our methods and our reputation clearly sets Advantage Basketball Camps at the top and have become a must do on coaches list around the world. Advantage Basketball Camps are consistently rated as one of the top basketball ball-handling camps in the world. Advantage Basketball Camps (310) 903-6473 or (425) 670-8877 Website: www.advantagebasketball.com Email: info@advnatgaebasketball.com

SUMMER SHOULD BE FUN! The Grauer School JUNE 21 - JULY 30 Established in 1991, The Grauer School specializes in promoting personalized and engaged learning, both across the community and around the world. Our Summer School is designed to let students have fun while they explore their academic, athletic, and creative skills in a close-knit environment. • Our week-long enrichment programs for middle schoolers meet from 9-12 and are guided by caring, dedicated professionals who work to provide meaning in education. • High School students can get ahead or caught up with one of our UC and WASC approved academic courses. Meeting daily, each class lasts 6 weeks, 3 weeks/semester. • 12th grade students are invited to take advantage of our College Application Preparation (CAP) Program to get a

jump start on the college application process. More information is available on the Summer School page of our website: www.grauerschool.com. Please call (760) 274-2118 if you have any questions.

La Jolla Playhouse "Young Performers' Workshop is a program that gives young theatre lovers the opportunity to explore, take risks and let their imaginations take center stage this summer. Students interact with theatre professionals in one-to three-week workshops focused on acting, movement, musical theatre, playmaking and more. For students in grades 2-12. A Summer Conservatory program for high school students interested in a career in professional theatre is also available. To register call (858) 550-1070 x 101 or visit lajollaplayhouse.org"

Affordable, Summer Fun with Mission Valley YMCA! With over 100 camps at two convenient locations, we have anything and everything you’re looking for this summer! Choose from Mountaineering, Video Game Design, Surf, Sports, and much more. Our camps feature outstanding staff, Before and After Care (included with most camps), and ACA accreditation. We also featuring a cost-effective, “YEssentials Camp” for $99 PER WEEK! For $20 a day, you can be certain your child is safe, having fun, and making friends this summer. (YEssentials does

Located in North Pacific Beach (Law st & Cass st) Safe • Fun • Friendly • Professional • Educational. SD’s Premier Surf School (10+ years of experience). Voted most family-oriented! A 3:1 student to instructor ratio, highly trained, certified instructors, and small class sizes. Weeklong camps for all levels (beginner, intermediate, & advance) starting June 7th- Sept 3rd and includes surfboards, wetsuits, snacks, pictures, t-shirts, certificate, Pizza Friday and awards! SDSS offers several additional programs: Mom’s and Women’s Clinic, Birthday Parties, Adult Weekend Clinics, Family Packages, Private Lessons, Special Events, After School. Insured, Licensed & Permitted by the City of SD. Call for a free brochure. Ask about our 2010 Summer Specials and other programs. (Register Early for Best Availability) 858-205-7683 4850 Cass St. San Diego, CA 92109 www.SanDiegoSurfingSchool.com sandiegosurfingschool@hotmail.com

Gym Ventures 2010 Sizzling Summer Camps Gym Ventures Summer Camps - The Best San Diego has to offer! Don't miss the Summer of a lifetime and Gym Ventures 2010 Sizzling Summer Camps. Our days are filled with gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, crafts, general activities and snacks/lunch. The end of each week is the Gym Ventures Olympics where parents, grandparents and friends are invited to come and see what our super star campers have learned throughout the week. Don’t let another Summer go by without coming to Gym Ventures Sizzling Summer Camps. We are conveniently located off the I-5 freeway by the Grand/Garnett exit. Call us today at 858-272-2266 or check out our website www.gym ventures.com for camp information and to register.

SURF CAMP

Surfing • Kayaking • Snorkeling • Ocean Awareness SAN DIEGO’S FINEST SURF SCHOOL

$100 OFF with this ad Register by June 1

• Weekly Sessions June-Sept • Variety of Activities • Small Groups • Professional Staff CHECK • Safe & Fun Atmosphere OUT OUR • Early Bird & Family Discounts NEW SHOP

619-225-0674

www.oceanexperience.net 4976 Newport Ave., San Diego, CA 92107

THURSDAY · MAY 2010 DOWNTOWN NEWS

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SUMMER CAMPS

THURSDAY · MAY 2010 DOWNTOWN NEWS

Neighborhood House Association Unveils Barbara Y. Fielding Early Learning Academy The Neighborhood House Association (NHA) unveiled its Barbara Y. Fielding Early Learning Academy on April 9, 2010. The child development center, formerly known as 41st Street Early Head Start, is part of the NHA 41st St. Social Service Center that has been serving the community for more than 40 years. The academy serves 32 children ages 18 months to three years of age as part of the NHA administered Federal Head Start program. The site was renamed in honor of Barbara Y. Fielding, a true pioneer of the federal Head Start program in San Diego. Mrs. Fielding held numerous key positions with Head Start throughout a career that spanned four decades and started with the inception of the Head Start program in 1965. NHA was honored to have Mrs. Fielding spend more than 30 years as director of the Head Start program before her retirement in 2006. In her tenure with NHA, Mrs. Fielding was instrumental in growing the program from 900 children to serving more than 10,000 San Diego children and families. Throughout her career, Mrs. Fielding fine-tuned her vision of pro-family services and assured that the progressive expansion of NHA’s Head Start program kept pace with the

rapidly-changing needs of local families. Her creativity and expertise resulted in an innovative Head Start program, complete with extended hours, unique community collaborations and a cuttingedge goal-driven service delivery system. The program included resolutions from the City of San Diego and the State of California, as well as several dedications and presentations by friends and family of Barbara Fielding, and NHA Head Start staff and children. Head Start is a federally-funded child development program designed to help break the cycle of poverty by providing preschool children of lowincome families with a comprehensive program to meet their emotional, social, health, nutritional and mental health needs. Over the past four decades, Head Start has touched the lives of more than 250,000 low-income preschool children and families at more than 100 locations in San Diego County. For more information on NHA’s Head Start program, visit www.neighborhoodhouse.org or call 1-888-873-5145.

We also featuring a cost-effective, “YEssentials Camp” for $99 PER WEEK! For $20 a day, you can be certain your child is safe, having fun, and making friends this summer. (YEssentials does not include Before and After Care; call or visit our website for more info).

Sign-up for Summer Day Camp at one of Mission Valley YMCA’s convenient locations – our Friars Rd facility (5505 Friars Rd) in Mission Valley or Toby Wells YMCA (5105 Overland Ave) in Kearny Mesa. For more information, visit our website: www.missionvalley.ymca.org, or call 619298-3576 for more information.

2 DAYS

FREE

Pay for 3 days and get the 4th and 5th day free email info@advantagebasketball.com for details www.advantagebasketball.com

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS | MAY 2010 | PAGE B15

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